How does acromegaly manifest in a patient?

Acromegaly is characterized by the overgrowth of tissues and bones that occurs after puberty, primarily due to an excess of growth hormone, often caused by a benign tumor of the pituitary gland. The condition leads to noticeable physical changes, such as enlargement of the hands, feet, and facial features. This overgrowth is significant because it ultimately results from the prolonged elevated levels of growth hormone, which continues to influence tissue proliferation and skeletal growth after the growth plates have closed.

The manifestation of acromegaly typically occurs in adults, distinguishing it from conditions like gigantism, which affects growth pre-puberty when growth plates are still open. The physical changes can be quite pronounced and detrimental, impacting not only appearance but also leading to complications such as hypertension, diabetes, and joint pain.

While abnormal glucose metabolism can occur in patients with acromegaly due to insulin resistance linked to excess growth hormone, it is not the defining feature of how acromegaly manifests. The focus of acromegaly is primarily on the changes in physical dimensions and the resultant health effects stemming from the overgrowth of tissues and bones.