A 20-year-old man was admitted to the hospital with severe headache, vision problems, and neck rigidity. His hands and feet were getting bigger over the last 3 years. Blood tests for meningitis were negative. However, he had low thyroxine, cortisol, and human chorionic gonadotropins (HCGs). The tests also revealed increased levels of the growth hormone. MRI revealed that he had pituitary adenoma with infarction. Surgeons removed his pituitary gland.
How did the patient develop adenoma?
Describe the pathophysiology behind his symptoms.
Does the patient have acromegaly? Give reasons to support your answer.
What other complications could the patient develop?
Does the patient require hormone level monitoring? Give reasons to support your answer.