AACE Rare Endocrine Disease Series On Demand: Acromegaly Puzzle - Clinical Clues to Earlier Diagnosis Challenges and Treatment Options-AACE Rare Endocrine Disease Series On Demand: Acromegaly Puzzle - Clinical Clues to Earlier Diagnosis Challenges and Treatment Options

AACE Rare Endocrine Disease Series On Demand: Acromegaly Puzzle - Clinical Clues to Earlier Diagnosis Challenges and Treatment Options

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Video Summary

Dr. Susan Sampson and Dr. Ranjod Gill discussed acromegaly, a rare endocrine disorder, during ACE's Rare Disease Webinar Series. They emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and evidence-based treatment, noting that the condition affects multiple organ systems and can lead to increased mortality if not properly managed. Typical acromegaly symptoms include coarsening facial features, muscle aches, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular issues. Delays in diagnosis, often spanning 5-10 years, contribute to the development of comorbidities. The webinar emphasized raising awareness among medical professionals through education and leveraging technology, such as artificial intelligence, to aid in early identification.<br /><br />Management options for acromegaly vary. Surgery is the first line of treatment, with medication options like somatostatin receptor ligands, Pegvisomant, and Cobergoline available for persistent cases. The speakers stressed personalized treatment plans considering patient-specific factors such as tumor characteristics, cost, and patient preferences. They discussed newer options like oral octreotide and highlighted the need for regular monitoring of comorbidities, including cardiovascular and respiratory issues, along with psychological and quality of life assessments.<br /><br />In a case study, a patient experienced a delay in acromegaly diagnosis after discontinuation of estrogen therapy. Her symptoms markedly deteriorated, highlighting the role hormones can play in modulating disease manifestation. Emphasizing the impact of different assays and evolving guidelines, Drs. Sampson and Gill concluded by stressing the need for a holistic, individualized approach to acromegaly management.

Keywords

acromegaly

endocrine disorder

early diagnosis

evidence-based treatment

medical education

artificial intelligence

personalized treatment

comorbidities

hormone modulation

individualized approach