GIANTISM Meaning and
Definition
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Gigantism, also known as acromegaly, is a medical condition characterized by excessive growth and an abnormal increase in the size of certain body parts. This condition occurs due to an excess of growth hormone, often caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland.
Gigantism usually begins during childhood or adolescence when the growth plates in bones are still open, whereas acromegaly typically develops in adulthood after the growth plates have closed. When the pituitary gland produces an excess of growth hormone, it stimulates the liver to produce more insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which promotes bone and tissue growth.
Individuals affected by gigantism often exhibit unusual height and abnormal growth of hands, feet, and facial features. Other common symptoms include joint pain, enlarged facial and jaw bones, thickened skin, increased sweating, and changes in facial appearance such as a prominent brow ridge, enlarged nose, and protruding jaw.
This condition can lead to various complications, including cardiovascular problems, vision and hearing impairments, diabetes mellitus, and arthritis. While gigantism is a rare condition, it can cause significant physical and psychological challenges for those affected.
Treatment for gigantism usually involves surgery to remove the pituitary tumor or radiation therapy to shrink the tumor. Medications may also be used to regulate growth hormone production and manage associated symptoms. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are crucial in managing the effects of gigantism and minimizing potential complications.
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Gigantism, a condition of abnormal size, or overgrowth, of the entire body or of any of its parts.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for GIANTISM
- fiantism
- viantism
- biantism
- hiantism
- yiantism
- tiantism
- guantism
- gjantism
- gkantism
- goantism
- g9antism
- g8antism
- gizntism
- gisntism
- giwntism
- giqntism
- giabtism
- giamtism
- giajtism
Etymology of GIANTISM
The term "giantism" has its roots in the Greek language. It can be traced back to the Greek word "γίγας" (gígas), which means "giant". In medical terminology, "giantism" refers to the condition known as gigantism, where there is excessive growth and abnormal height in an individual due to an overproduction of growth hormone. The term "giant" has been used throughout history to describe beings of enormous size and strength, which has influenced its usage in this context.
Similar spelling words for GIANTISM
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