What condition is characterized by excessive growth hormone leading to enlarged extremities in adults?

Acromegaly is the condition characterized by excessive growth hormone production leading to enlarged extremities in adults. This condition typically arises due to a benign tumor of the pituitary gland, known as an adenoma, which secretes an abnormally high amount of growth hormone after the growth plates have closed. As a result, while an individual may not grow in height after puberty, various tissues and bones, particularly in the face, hands, and feet, continue to grow, resulting in noticeable physical changes such as enlarged hands and feet, facial changes, and increased spacing of teeth.

The manifestations of acromegaly can occur gradually, often making it challenging to diagnose in the early stages. Symptoms may also include joint pain, thickened skin, and various complications that affect metabolic health.

In contrast, dwarfsim refers to a condition of short stature due to genetic or medical reasons, which is fundamentally different from the excessive growth seen in acromegaly. Cushing's syndrome involves excess cortisol production and presents with a different set of symptoms such as weight gain and characteristic facial changes. Gigantism, similar to acromegaly, results from excess growth hormone but occurs before the epiphyseal growth plates close, leading to increased height and larger