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Gigantism

Synonym(s)

  • pituitary gigantism

Definition(s)

The condition of accelerated and excessive growth in children or adolescents who are exposed to excess human growth hormone before the closure of epiphyses. It is usually caused by somatotroph hyperplasia or a growth-hormone secreting pituitary adenoma. These patients are of abnormally tall stature, more than 3 standard deviations above normal mean height for age.

Definition from: MeSH via Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the National Library of Medicine

See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

 
Published: May 13, 2013