Acromegaly is disease is the result of chronic secretion of growth hormone. In cats it is caused by a growth hormone secreting tumor in the pituitary. It is present in 1 out of 4 diabetic cats. This can lead to insulin resistance making diabetic control difficult. Other clinical signs include weight gain, broadened face, elongated feet, protrusion of the lower jaw, poor haircoat. We can also see breathing difficulty, heart failure, kidney failure, neurologic signs and lameness. These abnormalities are the result of continued tissue growth secondary to the secretion of growth hormone. The only definitive treatment for acromegaly is surgical removal of the pituitary tumor. This is only done in a couple of institutions in the United States and Great Britain. If your cat is diagnosed with diabetes, it is recommended to test for acromegaly as this can impact treatment recommendations, expectations and outcomes.
