Acromegaly is characterized by which of the following?

Acromegaly is characterized by which of the following?

• A. Enlargement of the extremities
• B. Loss of hair
• C. Decreased appetite
• D. Muscle weakness

Answer: (A)

In acromegaly, the defining feature is enlargement of the extremities. Excess growth hormone after the growth plates have closed causes soft-tissue swelling and bone thickening in the hands, feet, and facial features (such as a protruding jaw and enlarged tongue). This is why big hands and feet are the classic sign, even though other symptoms can appear. The other options describe changes that are not characteristic signs of acromegaly—hair loss, decreased appetite, or isolated muscle weakness may happen in various conditions but do not define this condition.

In acromegaly, the defining feature is enlargement of the extremities. Excess growth hormone after the growth plates have closed causes soft-tissue swelling and bone thickening in the hands, feet, and facial features (such as a protruding jaw and enlarged tongue). This is why big hands and feet are the classic sign, even though other symptoms can appear. The other options describe changes that are not characteristic signs of acromegaly—hair loss, decreased appetite, or isolated muscle weakness may happen in various conditions but do not define this condition.