What is a key feature of acromegaly?

Acromegaly is characterized by the overproduction of growth hormone, usually due to a pituitary adenoma, which leads to the enlargement of skeletal and soft tissues. One of the most notable features of this condition is the prominent facial bones. Patients with acromegaly often exhibit noticeable changes in their facial structure, including enlarged mandibles, broad noses, and pronounced brow ridges. These alterations result from the excessive growth hormone levels, causing the bones and cartilage to grow larger over time.

While individuals with acromegaly may also experience weight gain due to increased tissue mass and changes in metabolism, the defining and distinctive feature that sets acromegaly apart is the marked changes in the shape and size of the bones in the face and hands, which gives the condition its characteristic appearance. Short stature is typically not a feature of acromegaly; rather, most patients present with normal height or are taller than average adults. Dry skin can occur in various conditions and is not specific to acromegaly, making prominent facial bones the key feature associated with this disorder.