Acromegaly is an endocrine disorder of the pituitary gland leading to which of the following conditions?

• A. Increased production of insulin
• B. Decreased secretion of thyroid hormones
• C. Reduced calcium levels in the blood
• D. Excessive growth of bones and soft tissues in adults

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of the problem: Acromegaly is an endocrine disorder caused by the overproduction of growth hormone (GH) by the pituitary gland, typically due to a benign tumor called a pituitary adenoma.
2. Recall the role of growth hormone (GH): GH stimulates growth in bones and soft tissues. In adults, excessive GH secretion leads to abnormal growth of bones (especially in the hands, feet, and face) and soft tissues, as the growth plates in long bones have already closed after puberty.
3. Eliminate incorrect options: Increased production of insulin, decreased secretion of thyroid hormones, and reduced calcium levels in the blood are not directly related to the effects of excessive GH production in acromegaly.
4. Focus on the correct physiological outcome: The hallmark of acromegaly is the excessive growth of bones and soft tissues in adults, which is consistent with the overproduction of GH.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is the excessive growth of bones and soft tissues in adults, as this is the primary condition caused by acromegaly.