Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases are the most prevalent comorbidities in patients with acromegaly (APs). Acromegalic cardiomyopathy is the leading cause of mortality in APs. This study aimed to assess changes in morphology and function of the left heart in naïve APs 12 months after the beginning of acromegaly treatment and to explore the effects of disease activity and body composition parameters on changes in the left heart. Methods: This prospective study involved 34 APs and 34 healthy controls (CON) matched for age, gender, and BMI. DXA and 2D echocardiography were performed at diagnosis and 12 months after the beginning of the treatment. Results: In APs, the prevalence of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy was 70%. LV mass index (LVMI) was greater in APs compared to CON (124 vs. 86 ± g/m2, p < 0.001), but with no difference in size and systolic function of the LV. APs presented with increased left atrium volume (LAVI) and with diastolic dysfunction of the LV. Twelve months after the beginning of acromegaly treatment, IGF-1 levels decreased significantly (p < 0.001), and biochemical control of disease was achieved in 73.52% of APs. We found that in all APs, LAVI and LVMI decreased (all p < 0.05), and diastolic function of the LV improved without changes in systolic function. In multiple analyses, the changes in body surface area (β = -0.444, p < 0.001) and in lean body mass (β = -0.298, p = 0.027) were independent predictors of reverse remodelling of LVMI after the treatment. Conclusions: This study confirmed remodelling reversal of the left heart structure, followed by an improvement in diastolic function in naïve APs 12 months after the beginning of acromegaly treatment.
Background Osteoporosis is a chronic, systemic skeletal disease characterized by decreased bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration, leading to increased fracture risk. In Slovakia, its prevalence is estimated at 6%, with substantial health, social, and economic burdens. Objective The Slovak national guideline provides an overview for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of osteoporosis in Slovakia, reflecting recent scientific advances and recommendations from international bodies. Methods The guidelines were developed by a multidisciplinary expert panel and officially adopted by the Ministry of Health of the Slovak Republic. They are based on current evidence and international standards, including FRAX, IOF, ISCD, and ESCEO recommendations. Results Diagnosis involves clinical risk assessment, biochemical testing, and imaging—primarily DXA and trabecular bone score. FRAX with or without BMD enhances risk stratification. Osteoporosis is categorized as primary or secondary. Prevention strategies include lifestyle modification, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, and fall risk reduction. Pharmacologic treatment includes antiresorptive agents (bisphosphonates, denosumab, SERMs), osteoanabolic (teriparatide, romosozumab), and hormone therapy when indicated. Sequential treatment strategies are emphasized, particularly in high-risk individuals. Treatment monitoring includes bone turnover markers and periodic DXA. Conclusions The Slovak guidelines provide a comprehensive and pragmatic approach for the management of osteoporosis across all stages, emphasizing early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and long-term fracture prevention. They align with European and global best practices and support clinical decision-making across specialties.
IntroductionAcromegaly is associated with increased vertebral fracture (VF) risk regardless of bone mineral density (BMD). However, the vertebral trabecular compartment is still low; a possible contributor to this may be impaired glucose metabolism (GM) which frequently complicates acromegaly. Additionally, soft tissue thickness may confound bone imaging in acromegaly patients.ObjectiveThis study aims to assess the association of GM with BMD, trabecular bone score adjusted for BMI (TBSBMI), and trabecular bone score adjusted for tissue thickness (TBSTT) among acromegaly subjects.Patients and methodsA cross-sectional study was performed among 70 consecutive acromegaly patients (24 male/46 female, aged 55.1 years) divided in two subgroups: abnormal GM (n = 35) and normal GM (n = 35). Using DXA, BMD, TBSBMI, TBSTT, and VF screening were performed.ResultsIn all subjects, TBSTT was higher (mean 9.5%) than TBSBMI. Abnormal GM subjects had lower TBSBMI (1.166 ± 0.15) than normal GM subjects (1.232 ± 0.12; p < 0.05). No between-group difference in TBSTT or BMD was observed. In a multiple regression model, the best predictor of TBSTT was HbA1c (p = 0.002). None of the DXA measures or GM parameters was a significant predictor of VF (n = 7).ConclusionThe abnormal GM acromegaly subjects had lower TBSBMI than those with normal GM. TBSTT was higher than TBSBMI, and no between-group difference based on GM status was observed. TBSTT was significantly associated with GM parameters, notably HbA1c. The relationship of TBSTT with GM parameters may imply an effect of GM on trabecular bone microstructure in patients with acromegaly; a further study is indicated.
Searchable abstracts of presentations at key conferences in endocrinology ISSN 1470-3947 (print) | ISSN 1479-6848 (online)
Searchable abstracts of presentations at key conferences in endocrinology ISSN 1470-3947 (print) | ISSN 1479-6848 (online)
Searchable abstracts of presentations at key conferences in endocrinology ISSN 1470-3947 (print) | ISSN 1479-6848 (online)
Searchable abstracts of presentations at key conferences in endocrinology ISSN 1470-3947 (print) | ISSN 1479-6848 (online)
Abstract Disclosure: M. Kuzma: None. J. Payer: None. P. Vanuga: None. I. Sagova: None. D. Pavai: None. P. Jackuliak: None. Z. Killinger: None. Introduction: Previously, it was thought that increased risk of vertebral fractures (VF) in acromegaly is associated with impaired trabecular bone. More recently, cortical bone was proposed as one of the fracture risk determinant. However, trabecular compartment is still decreased. Glucose intolerance is a frequent complication of acromegaly and is directly attributable to the excess circulating growth hormone and IGF-1 concentrations and thus possibly lead to trabecular bone detoriation.Objectives: To assess effect of glucose metabolism on DXA-derived bone parameters, such as bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular bone score (TBS), cortical and trabecular vBMD, surface BMD and cortical thickness of proximal femur among patients with acromegaly. Patients and methods: In total, 70 consecutive patients (24 males/56 female, mean age = 55.6 years) with acromegaly based on current ADA guidelines were divided in two subgroups according to glucose metabolism(GM): abnormal GM (n=35; 14 males/21 females; 15 with active disease) and normal GM (n=35;10 Males /25 Females; 11 with active disease). Subjects were prospectively followed up for two years. At baseline and year 2; all subjects had pituitary hormonal measures, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), HBA1c, C-peptide, insulin resistance index (IRI) and DXA measurement performed. From DXA, BMD, TBS and 3D-Shaper parameters were derived. Results: At baseline; subjects with abnormal GM had lower TBS (1.166±0.15) in comparison to normal GM subjects (1.232±0.12; p<0.05). Insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), FPG, HBA1c, C-peptide, IRI and bone parameters was correlated in simple regression model. FPG, HBA1c, C-peptide and IRI was negatively associated with TBS. No correlation between GM parameters and other bone measures was observed. Multiple regression model of all GM parameters weighted by IGF-1 revealed HBA1c as a significant predictor of TBS value (Estimate =-0,054; p=0.04). At year 2; FPG and HBA1c was negatively associated with TBS. In multiple regression IGF-1-weighted model, no significant predictor of TBS was observed. Conclusion: Acromegaly subjects with abnormal GM have lower TBS in comparison to those with normal GM. The best GM parameter to predict TBS in acromegaly was HBA1c. This study showed that trabecular bone microstructure, as indirectly assessed by TBS, is likely resulting of impaired glucose metabolism. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023
IntroductionImpairment of bone structure in patients with acromegaly (AP) varies independently of bone mineral density (BMD). Body composition parameters, which are altered in patients with acromegaly, are important determinants of bone strength.PurposeThe aim of this study was to examine BMD and lumbar trabecular bone score (TBS) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and to assess its relationship with disease activity, age, glucose metabolism, and body composition parameters.MethodsThis cross-sectional prospective study involved 115 patients with acromegaly (70 F, 45 M) and 78 healthy controls (CON) (53 F, 25 M) matched for age, gender, and BMI. Bone mineral density, TBS and body composition parameters were measured using DXA.ResultsAP presented with lower TBS compared to CON (1.2 ± 0.1 v 1.31 ± 0.1, P< 0.001). No significant correlation was observed between IGF-1/GH levels and TBS. Age, glycated haemoglobin, BMI, waist circumference, fat mass, and lean mass negatively correlated with TBS in both sexes. Multiple linear regression analysis of all these parameters revealed age and waist circumference as independent significant predictors of TBS in AP. We did not find difference in BMD (lumbar and femoral sites) between AP and CON nor between active and controlled AP. We observed negative correlation between age and BMD of the femoral neck and total hip (P < 0.001). Testosterone levels in males, BMI, waist circumference, fat mass, and lean mass positively correlated with BMD in AP, with stronger correlation between lean mass and BMD compared to fat mass.ConclusionPatients with acromegaly have lower TBS than controls, confirming impaired bone microarchitecture in acromegaly regardless of BMD. Age, body composition parameters and glucose metabolism contribute to TBS deterioration in AP more than disease activity itself.
Searchable abstracts of presentations at key conferences in endocrinology ISSN 1470-3947 (print) | ISSN 1479-6848 (online)
Searchable abstracts of presentations at key conferences in endocrinology ISSN 1470-3947 (print) | ISSN 1479-6848 (online)
Background External root resorption is an irreversible loss of dental hard tissue as a result of odontoclastic action. Multiple external cervical root resorptions in permanent teeth are rare. The exact cause of external cervical root resorption is unclear. It is currently well established that RANK/RANKL signaling is essential for osteoclastogenesis and osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. Denosumab is an anti-RANKL antibody used for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. RANK/RANKL pathway suppression by denosumab is expected to suppress the activity of clastic cells responsible for hard tissue resorption involving both osteoclasts and odontoclasts. Case presentation This case report demonstrates aggressive and generalized idiopathic external cervical root resorption that started and advanced during ongoing antiresorptive therapy with the human monoclonal RANKL-blocking antibody denosumab without discontinuation of therapy in a 74-year-old female patient treated for postmenopausal osteoporosis. The extent of resorptive defects was too large and progressively led to fractures of the teeth. The number of teeth involved and the extend of destruction excluded conservative treatment. The affected teeth had to be extracted for functional prosthetic reconstruction. Conclusions This finding suggests that treatment with denosumab may be associated with severe and aggressive odontoclastic resorption of multiple dental roots despite an adequate inhibitory effect on osteoclasts in the treatment of osteoporosis. The RANKL-independent pathways of clastic cell formation are likely to be involved in this pathological process.
Acromegaly is a rare, chronic, progressive disease which is usually caused by a pituitary adenoma. Long-term presence of elevated growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels accompanying this disease is associated with rheumatologic, cardiovascular, pulmonary and metabolic complications. Cardiovascular disorders are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with acromegaly. Cardiovascular complications of acromegaly include an arterial hypertension, cardiomyopathy, arrhytmias, valvulopathy as well as endothelial dysfunction. The diagnosis of acromegaly has been delayed for several years due to slow progression of symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment of the disease is necessary to prevent chronic cardiovascular damage.
Searchable abstracts of presentations at key conferences in endocrinology ISSN 1470-3947 (print) | ISSN 1479-6848 (online)
Not required for Clinical Vignette.
Objective . Median neuropathy is a common manifestation of acromegaly, although its pathology is uncertain. Changes in levels of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) and body composition are potential parameters in pathology of median neuropathy in acromegaly. We aimed to assess changes in the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the median nerve and body composition in newly diagnosed acromegalic patients 1 year after treatment and to determine their mutual relationships. Design . This prospective study included 30 patients with newly diagnosed acromegaly and 30 healthy controls matched for age, gender, and body mass index. Physical and laboratory examinations, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and ultrasound evaluations were performed at baseline and 1 year after initial treatment. Results . The CSA of the median nerve was increased in acromegalic patients compared with controls (13.1 mm 2 [12.2–14.9] vs 7.5 mm 2 [6.4–8.4], P < 0.001). One year after treatment of acromegaly, GH and IGF-I levels decreased significantly. The median nerve CSA was significantly reduced after treatment (11.6 mm 2 [10.2–13.1], P < 0.001). Reduction of IGF-I levels correlated with a decrease in lean mass and increase in fat mass. The median nerve CSA positively correlated with IGF-I levels ( R = 0.492, P = 0.006) and lean mass ( R = 0.419, P = 0.021) in acromegalic patients before treatment. Conclusion . This study demonstrates a reduction in the median nerve CSA 1 year after treatment of acromegaly. These changes are closely associated with a reduction in IGF- I levels and in lean body mass. The enlargement of the median nerve in acromegaly can be reversed with adequate treatment.
PurposeThe present study aims to evaluate the effect of myo-Inositol plus Selenium supplementation in patients affected by subclinical hypothyroidism. MethodsOne hundred and forty-eight patients were included in the study from 8 different centers of Slovakia, and treated for 6 months with a daily dose of 600 mg myo-Ins plus 83 mcg Se. The patients included at the enrollment were women of reproductive age (18-50), who exhibit values of TSH in the range 2.5-5 mU/l and positivity to antibodies TPO-Ab/TG-Ab, or otherwise values of TSH in the range 5-10 mU/l both with and without positivity to antibodies TPO-Ab/TG-Ab. ResultsPatients affected by subclinical hypothyroidism exhibited a significant improvement of their condition when treated for 6 months with a combination of myo-Inositol and Selenium. The TSH values significantly ameliorated along with the index of autoimmunity and the thyroid status. In a sub-class of patients, the auto-antibody titer decreased after myo-inositol + Selenium administration. The treatment also induces a regularization of the menstrual cycle and a reduction of the cholesterol in the patients enrolled for the study. Furthermore, a significant improvement is observed in the perception of the symptoms associated with subclinical hypothyroidism over the treatment period. ConclusionA dietary supplementation with of myo-Inositol and Selenium in the treatment of patients affected by subclinical hypothyroidism exhibits a beneficial role in the recovery of TSH values, in the improvement of the symptoms associated to this condition and in the maintenance of the thyroid functions.The trial was approved by the Ethical Committee from National Institute of Endocrinology and Diabetology of Lubochna, Slovakia, date 18.12.2018, registration number: 3124/2018.
Despite improvements in surgical techniques, current radiotherapy options and development of long-acting somatostatin analogues, biochemical control of acromegaly is not achieved in some patients. The failure to achieve optimal serum growth hormone (RH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels means increased morbidity and mortality of acromegaly patients. The RH receptor antagonist pegvisomant (PEG) is a genetically engineered RH analog that prevents of RH receptor dimerization, i.e. a process that is crucial for the action of RH at the cellular level. The effect of the treatment is suppression of IGF-1 production. In pilot studies, normalization of IGF-1 levels was achieved in up to 90 % of patients receiving PEG. However, PEG efficacy in clinical settings is slightly lower (65 to 97 %) than reported in the key studies. A rare side effect of treatment is elevations of liver transaminases. In addition, pituitary tumor growth progression has been reported in several cases. In this review article, we present long-term data on pegvisomant treatment and discuss its associated risks and benefits.
Cardiovascul diseases are the most common comorbidities in acromegaly. Potential parameters in pathology of cardiovascular comorbidities are changes in levels of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) as well as body composition parameters. The aim of this study was to examine morphological and functional parameters of the cardiovascular system by echocardiography and to assess its relationship with disease activity and body composition parameters. We prospectively enroled 129 acromegalic patients (82 females, 47 males) and 80 healthy controls (53 females, 27 males) matched for age, gender, and BMI. All patients underwent two-dimensional echocardiography. Body composition parameters were assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Acromegaly patients presented with higher left ventricle mass (LVM) compared to controls (LVMI: 123 ± 45 g/m2 vs 83 ± 16 g/m2, P < 0.001). Prevalence of left ventricle hypertrophy in acromegaly patients was 67