Which condition can occur due to excessive growth hormone secretion in adults?

Study for the PLAB Endocrinology Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Excessive secretion of growth hormone in adults leads to acromegaly, a condition characterized by the overgrowth of bones and soft tissues. This typically occurs after the closure of the epiphyseal growth plates, which is why it is seen in adults rather than children. The overproduction of growth hormone, usually due to a benign adenoma in the pituitary gland, results in a wide range of symptoms, including enlarged hands and feet, facial changes such as protruding jaw or enlarged nose, and various systemic effects such as insulin resistance and cardiovascular issues.

In contrast, other conditions mentioned in the options arise from different hormonal imbalances or etiologies. Pituitary dwarfism is a result of insufficient growth hormone, particularly in childhood. Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that leads to hyperthyroidism, causing distinct symptoms but unrelated to growth hormone levels. Cushing's syndrome occurs due to excessive cortisol production, not growth hormone, and presents with its own unique set of symptoms.

Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why acromegaly is directly linked to excess growth hormone in adults, while the other listed conditions are not related to this specific hormonal secretion.

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