ACROMEGALY: A SEVERE NEUROENDOCRINE DISORDER WITH MULTISYSTEM MANIFESTATIONS

Acromegaly is a severe neuroendocrine disorder caused by chronic hypersecretion of growth hormone (GH), leading to pathological periosteal bone growth, cartilage proliferation, soft tissue hypertrophy, and internal organ enlargement. It also affects the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and endocrine systems, leading to metabolic disturbances. The disease primarily manifests between the ages of 20 and 40, though it can occur after the age of 50. Epidemiological studies estimate a prevalence of 125–295 cases per million adults and an annual incidence of 3–4 new cases per million. However, true prevalence is likely higher. This review discusses the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, complications, and diagnostic challenges of acromegaly, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and intervention.