Gigantism By: Colby Dahlke

What is Gigantism? Gigantism is an abnormally large growth due to excess growth hormone during childhood, before growth plates close.

Cause The main cause of too much growth hormone released is from a non-cancerous tumor of the pituitary gland.

Symptoms Excessive growth The child is large for their age Delayed puberty Double vision or difficulty with peripheral vision Headaches Increased sweating Large hands and feet Thickening of facial features Weakness

Diagnostic Procedures CT or MRI of head There will be high prolactin levels Increased insulin growth factor levels

Treatment Surgery to remove the tumor Medication that will reduce how much growth hormone is released Radiation Therapy

Prognosis and Prevention Pituitary surgery is usually the best option in limiting growth hormone production Gigantism can’t be prevented, but once it happens and is removed, radiation therapy or medications may be recommended to prevent it from happening again