Acromegaly is a condition caused by which issue?

Acromegaly is a disorder that results from an excessive secretion of growth hormone, typically due to a benign tumor of the pituitary gland known as an adenoma. The overproduction of growth hormone leads to an abnormal increase in growth and size of bones and tissues, particularly noticeable in the hands, feet, and face.

The fundamental pathophysiology of acromegaly directly correlates with the overproduction of growth hormone, which stimulates the liver to produce insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). This hormone contributes to the growth-promoting effects in various tissues, leading to the distinctive features seen in patients with acromegaly.

A lack of hormone production is not related to acromegaly, as the condition is characterized by excess hormone levels, specifically growth hormone. Similarly, abnormal secretion of insulin and excessive calcitonin secretion are unrelated to the condition, as they pertain to different metabolic and regulatory processes in the body. Thus, the underlying issue that causes acromegaly is the abnormal growth hormone secretion.