PSEUDACROMEGALY Meaning and
Definition
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Pseudacromegaly is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal enlargement of certain body parts, especially the extremities, that resembles the symptoms of acromegaly. Acromegaly is a rare hormonal disorder caused by an excess production of growth hormone, usually due to a benign tumor in the pituitary gland. However, pseudacromegaly is distinct from true acromegaly as it is not caused by an excess production of growth hormone.
In pseudacromegaly, the enlargement typically affects the hands, feet, and facial features, leading to a distorted appearance. This condition often occurs as a result of long-term use of exogenous sources of growth hormone, such as certain medications or supplements that contain growth hormone or substances that stimulate its production. Pseudacromegaly can also be associated with excessive production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which contributes to skeletal overgrowth.
The clinical features of pseudacromegaly are similar to those of acromegaly, including enlargement of the hands and feet, thickening of the skin, joint pain, and characteristic facial changes such as a protruding jaw and enlarged nose and lips. However, the distinction lies in the underlying cause, as the excess growth hormone in true acromegaly is secreted by the body itself, whereas in pseudacromegaly, it is often due to external factors. Treatment usually involves addressing the underlying cause and discontinuing the exogenous administration of growth hormone or its stimulatory substances.
In summary, pseudacromegaly is a condition characterized by abnormal enlargement of certain body parts, resembling the symptoms of acromegaly but caused by external sources of growth hormone rather than excessive production within the body.
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Enlargement of the extremities and face, not associated with disease of the hypophysis cerebri.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PSEUDACROMEGALY
Etymology of PSEUDACROMEGALY
The word "pseudacromegaly" is derived from two components: "pseudo" and "acromegaly".
1. "Pseudo" originates from the Greek word "pseudḗs" (ψευδής), meaning "false" or "not genuine". It is commonly used in English to indicate something that is false, deceptive, or pretending to be something it is not.
2. "Acromegaly" comes from the Greek roots "acro" meaning "extremity" and "megaly" meaning "enlargement". Acromegaly is a medical condition characterized by excessive enlargement of the extremities, such as the hands, feet, nose, and jaw. It is usually caused by the overproduction of growth hormone in adulthood.
