What results from hypersecretion of human growth hormone after puberty?

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The hypersecretion of human growth hormone (HGH) after puberty leads to acromegaly, which is characterized by the abnormal growth of bones and tissues, particularly noticeable in the hands, feet, and face. This condition occurs because, unlike in children where excessive growth hormone leads to proportional height increase (as seen in gigantism), post-puberty changes result in the thickening and enlargement of bones and other soft tissues, rather than an increase in overall height.

Acromegaly often develops slowly, and the symptoms can be subtle at first, leading to a delay in diagnosis. Common features include enlarged facial features, arthritic changes in joint pain, and other metabolic disturbances.

In contrast to acromegaly, dwarfism is related to insufficient growth hormone levels during childhood, while Grave's disease and hypothyroidism are conditions associated with thyroid hormone production rather than growth hormone. Therefore, the effects of hypersecretion of HGH following puberty directly correlate with the development of acromegaly, distinguishing it from the other options mentioned.

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