A chronic disease of adults caused by over secretion of the pituitary gland hormones and which is characterized by an enlargement of many parts of the bones of the extremities, such as the face, the nose, the ears, the jaws, the fingers, and the toes: The beginning of acromegaly is gradual and so neither the patient nor his or her family or friends notice it.

Early developments of acromegaly include muscular pains, headaches, and abnormal sweating. The teeth become separated, and the hands and feet gradually become bigger.

As acromegaly progresses, muscular weakness becomes a serious problem, and visual problems may progress into blindness.