GIGANTISM

WHAT IS GIGANTISM?

An abnormally large growth due to an excess of GH during childhood, before the bone growth plates have closed.

CAUSES OF GIGANTISM

The most common cause of too much GH release is a noncancerous(benign) tumor of the pituitary gland.

S/S OF GIGANTISM

• Delayed puberty
• Very tall height
• Thick facial bones & thick skin
• Double vision or difficulty with peripheral vision
• Weakness

TREATMENT OF GIGANTISM

Medication may be used to reduce GH release, radiation therapy has been used to bring GH levels back to normal, surgery is a treatment of choice for pituitary tumors with well defined borders.

FUN FACTS

• Tallest man living is 8'3
• Tallest woman living is 7'7
• Tallest child was a 13yr old at 7'5
• Longest baby born was 30in.

Cites: nlm.nin.gov
Medical Assisting 5e