Question

Gigantism results due to

• A. Less secretion cf growth hormone
• B. Excess secretion of growth hormone after adolescence
• C. Excess secretion of oxytocin
• D. Excess secretion of growth hormone from childhood

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Excess secretion of growth hormone from childhood

GH is the growth hormone, secreted by the anterior pituitary, which targets soft tissues and bones and serves to stimulate cell division, protein synthesis and bone growth. Dwarfism is caused by underproduction of GH in childhood and is characterized by perfect proportions but small stature. Overproduction of GH in childhood and adolescence causes gigantism which is characterized by excessive growth and poor health as a secondary effect. Overproduction of GH in adults causes acromegaly, characterized by enlargement of feet, hands and face ( specially the chin, nose and eyebrows ridges) as long bones do not respond to the hormone in them.

So, the correct answer is option D.