Bangkok:A story circulating on social media has highlighted a musician who was alerted by a doctor to possible symptoms of acromegaly after observing physical abnormalities. These abnormalities, such as large hands and feet and a protruding chin, are linked to excessive growth hormone levels, which cause gigantism and acromegaly.
According to Thai News Agency, gigantism and acromegaly are caused by excess growth hormone due to a pituitary adenoma but occur at different life stages. Gigantism affects children, leading to rapid growth and tall stature, while acromegaly affects adults, resulting in the enlargement of bones and tissues without an increase in height.
The Congdon Anatomy Museum at Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok houses cadavers for educational purposes, including those of Mr. Lek and Ms. Mali Duangdee, both of whom were affected by gigantism. Ms. Mali, once recognized by Guinness World Records as the tallest girl, reached a height of 217 centimeters before passing away at 24 due to complications from a pituitary tumor. Her body was donated to Siriraj Hospital for educational use, with her skeleton displayed in the museum.
Gigantism is diagnosed through medical history, physical exams, blood tests for growth hormone levels, and MRI scans to detect pituitary tumors. Treatment often involves surgery, medication, and radiation therapy to manage hormone levels and tumor growth. Acromegaly, occurring after bone growth has stopped, leads to changes in facial features and extremities, requiring similar diagnostic and treatment approaches. Both conditions carry risks of severe complications if untreated, emphasizing the importance of early detection and comprehensive care.