What clinical signs are associated with acromegaly?

Acromegaly is a disorder that results from excessive secretion of growth hormone, often due to a growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma. The clinical signs associated with this condition are largely due to the effects of increased growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1).

The correct answer highlights uncontrolled hypertension and increased ring size, which are common manifestations of acromegaly. Patients often exhibit peripheral tissue growth, leading to enlargement of the hands and feet. This can result in visible changes such as increased glove or shoe size and difficulty with rings fitting properly, as individuals with acromegaly may notice that their wedding rings become too tight. Additionally, the chronic effects of growth hormone can lead to cardiovascular changes, including hypertension, which is frequently observed in these patients.

In contrast, weight loss and hypoglycemia are not typically associated with acromegaly; instead, affected individuals may experience weight gain or obesity. Short stature is contradictory to the condition because acromegaly occurs in adults after the epiphyseal plates have closed, resulting in enlarged structures rather than decreased height. Hypoglycemia and excessive urination are also not characteristic of acromegaly; rather, patients may experience insulin resistance which can