What is the common cause of acromegaly?

Acromegaly is primarily caused by excessive production of growth hormone, usually due to a benign tumor on the pituitary gland known as an adenoma. When there is an overproduction of growth hormone, it leads to an increase in the levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which in turn stimulates growth in their tissues and organs. This hormonal imbalance results in the characteristic symptoms of acromegaly, such as enlarged hands and feet, facial changes, and other systemic effects.

The hormones and conditions listed in the other choices do not directly cause acromegaly. For example, while overproduction of testosterone can impact growth and development, it is not the underlying cause of acromegaly. Similarly, insulin resistance and hypothyroidism are metabolic disorders that do not initiate the overproduction of growth hormone. Understanding this mechanism highlights the specific relationship between the pituitary gland's production of growth hormone and the development of acromegaly.