1. Gigantism
By: Colby Dahlke

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

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

4. 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

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

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

7. 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