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Gigantism

Gigantism is a condition that can be caused by abnormally high levels of human growth hormone (GH) during childhood. High GH levels cause an affected child to grow extremely tall.

The excess GH is usually produced by a tumor in the pituitary gland.

The effects of gigantism can be prevented with medicine if the condition is discovered early.

Last Revised: August 2, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Alan C. Dalkin, MD - Endocrinology

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