In its most simplified descriptions, as the presence of a pituitary adenoma leading to the over-secretion of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1, acromegaly can appear deceptively straightforward as far as chronic conditions go. However, the nature of acromegaly as an endocrine disorder inherently means it interacts with and affects numerous other physiological systems and pathways. This can lead to complications and an increased risk for additional comorbidities among acromegaly patients.
The endocrine basis of acromegaly overlaps with an extensive range of additional diseases, conditions, and assorted physiological pathways. This makes acromegaly a starting point for understanding other molecular mechanisms and pathways, while leaving those afflicted with acromegaly susceptible to complications from other comorbidities. There is increased interest in the pathogenesis, treatment, and understanding of acromegaly for this reason.
Acromegaly has been linked to changes in erythropoiesis, iron homeostasis, and myokine regulation, among numerous other physiological pathways and systems. With such a varied range of influence, it’s no surprise that acromegaly has been linked to symptomatic heart disease, osteoarticular disorders, and numerous other conditions. By understanding not only the pathophysiology underlying acromegaly but also how it interacts with and influences these other systems, we can better treat and provide care for patients with this disease.
This Research Topic explores the interconnected nature of acromegaly and its complicating comorbidities. By understanding how the pituitary gland, through the lens of acromegaly, interacts with other systems and physiological pathways, it will provide a greater understanding of the nature of those pathways as well as potential avenues for treatment in the future.
In its most simplified descriptions, as the presence of a pituitary adenoma leading to the over-secretion of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1, acromegaly can appear deceptively straightforward as far as chronic conditions go. However, the nature of acromegaly as an endocrine disorder inherently means it interacts with and affects numerous other physiological systems and pathways. This can lead to complications and an increased risk for additional comorbidities among acromegaly patients.
The endocrine basis of acromegaly overlaps with an extensive range of additional diseases, conditions, and assorted physiological pathways. This makes acromegaly a starting point for understanding other molecular mechanisms and pathways, while leaving those afflicted with acromegaly susceptible to complications from other comorbidities. There is increased interest in the pathogenesis, treatment, and understanding of acromegaly for this reason.
Acromegaly has been linked to changes in erythropoiesis, iron homeostasis, and myokine regulation, among numerous other physiological pathways and systems. With such a varied range of influence, it’s no surprise that acromegaly has been linked to symptomatic heart disease, osteoarticular disorders, and numerous other conditions. By understanding not only the pathophysiology underlying acromegaly but also how it interacts with and influences these other systems, we can better treat and provide care for patients with this disease.
This Research Topic explores the interconnected nature of acromegaly and its complicating comorbidities. By understanding how the pituitary gland, through the lens of acromegaly, interacts with other systems and physiological pathways, it will provide a greater understanding of the nature of those pathways as well as potential avenues for treatment in the future.
