Acromegaly is primarily caused by the excess production of which hormone?

Acromegaly is a disorder that is primarily caused by the excess production of human growth hormone (HGH). In individuals with acromegaly, this hormone is typically overproduced due to a benign tumor on the pituitary gland, known as an adenoma. HGH regulates growth and influences various bodily functions, including metabolism and tissue growth. When there is an excess of this hormone in adulthood, it leads to abnormal growth of bones and soft tissues, resulting in the characteristic features of acromegaly, such as enlarged hands and feet, facial changes, and other systemic effects. Understanding the role of human growth hormone is crucial in recognizing the condition, its effects on the body, and the underlying mechanisms that lead to it.