Gigantism

Gigantism is an abnormal increase in body size, leading to the acquisition of excessive weight. The most common cause of gigantism is increased secretion of growth hormone (somatotropin) by the pituitary gland, which is observed in childhood.

With eunuchoid gigantism, high human growth is accompanied by delayed sexual development. As a result, a person experiences intensive growth of long tubular bones with delayed development and fusion of their ends (epiphyses).

Gigantism is associated with the disease acromegaly, which also causes excessive secretion of growth hormone in adults.

Gigantism is an abnormal change in the human body in which it becomes excessive in size, which can lead to the accumulation of large amounts of weight. It is usually caused by excessive secretion of growth hormone, which is produced by the pituitary gland of the brain.

Gigantism can manifest itself in various forms, including eunuchoid gigantism, which is characterized by a person's tall stature but delayed sexual development. This leads to intensive growth of long tubular limbs with slow development and fusion of their ends.

Causes for the development of gigantism include heredity, genetic defects and the development of diseases such as hormonal imbalance or pituitary gland dysfunction. Most often, gigantism develops in childhood, when the body’s growth process is in an active stage. However, cases of gigantism occurring in adulthood are possible, mainly after a disease of the pituitary gland or severe head injury.

One of the most common signs of gigantism is the presence of excessively large hands, feet, or face. In other cases, people with gigantism may have larger chests, necks, or even torsos. Many people with this condition have disproportionately large heads and underdeveloped limbs. They also often suffer from high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, and also tend to have high blood cholesterol levels.

Treatment of gigantism is aimed at reducing symptoms and preventing long-term consequences of the disease. Therapy includes stopping the pituitary gland from secreting growth hormone, taking hormonal medications, physical therapy, and surgical correction if necessary. An important role is played by identifying the causes of the disease and their treatment.

Famous people who experienced gigantism include Henry Ford, whose arms reached six inches in length. In addition, giant people include such famous personalities as Salvador Dali, Hugo Chavez and Mikhail Kutuzov.

Although gigantism remains a difficult to treat condition, doctors are developing new techniques to identify and treat gigantism. Regular monitoring and examination of patients allows us to identify the disease in the early stages, which allows us to select appropriate therapy and prevent possible complications and consequences.