Question

The client is admitted with acromegaly. Which sign or symptom is associated with acromegaly? A. Rapid weight gain due to cortisol elevations B. Extreme height due to an increased growth hormone level C. A pendulous abdomen related to altered fat distribution D. A dowager hump secondary to osteoporosis

Short answer

Answer: Extreme height due to an increased growth hormone level.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Acromegaly

Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder that occurs when the pituitary gland produces too much growth hormone. This usually happens due to a tumor in the pituitary gland. The excess growth hormone in the body leads to an overgrowth of bones and other tissue, especially in the hands, feet, and face.

Reviewing the given options

We have four choices: A. Rapid weight gain due to cortisol elevations B. Extreme height due to an increased growth hormone level C. A pendulous abdomen related to altered fat distribution D. A dowager hump secondary to osteoporosis

Evaluating the options based on the description of acromegaly

We know that acromegaly is characterized by an excess of growth hormone, which leads to overgrowth of bones and other tissue, especially in the hands, feet, and face. A. Rapid weight gain due to cortisol elevations: This option is incorrect because rapid weight gain linked with cortisol elevations is associated with Cushing's syndrome, not acromegaly. B. Extreme height due to an increased growth hormone level: This option seems to be correct because acromegaly involves the overproduction of growth hormone, which can cause extreme height. C. A pendulous abdomen related to altered fat distribution: This option is incorrect because a pendulous abdomen indicates excess adipose tissue and is not a direct result of acromegaly. D. A dowager hump secondary to osteoporosis: This option is incorrect because a dowager hump, a curve in the upper spine, is related to osteoporosis, not acromegaly.

Select the correct answer

Based on our evaluation, the correct answer is: B. Extreme height due to an increased growth hormone level