Diagnosis and therapeutic approach to bone health in patients with hypopituitarism

The results of many studies in recent years indicate a significant impact of pituitary function on bone health. The proper function of the pituitary gland has a significant impact on the growth of the skeleton and the appearance of sexual dimorphism. It is also responsible for achieving peak bone mass, which protects against the development of osteoporosis and fractures later in life. It is also liable for the proper remodeling of the skeleton, which is a physiological mechanism managing the proper mechanical resistance of bones and the possibility of its regeneration after injuries. Pituitary diseases causing hypofunction and deficiency of tropic hormones, and thus deficiency of key hormones of effector organs, have a negative impact on the skeleton, resulting in reduced bone mass and susceptibility to pathological fractures. The early appearance of pituitary dysfunction, i.e. in the pre-pubertal period, is responsible for failure to achieve peak bone mass, and thus the risk of developing osteoporosis in later years. This argues for the need for a thorough assessment of patients with hypopituitarism, not only in terms of metabolic disorders, but also in terms of bone disorders. Early and properly performed treatment may prevent patients from developing the bone complications that are so common in this pathology. The aim of this review is to discuss the physiological, pathophysiological, and clinical insights of bone involvement in pituitary disease.

The Relationship between the Burden of Acromegaly, Associated Comorbidities, Complications and Disease Status

Uncontrolled acromegaly causes increased morbidity and mortality. The analysis of acromegaly comorbidities and complications is important when establishing a standard of care for the entire population of acromegaly patients. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of comorbidities and complications of acromegaly and their dependence on the activity of the disease. A retrospective analysis of medical records from 124 patients with acromegaly was carried out, including 39 who were cured, 73 treated with somatostatin analogs and 12 newly diagnosed patients. The incidence of comorbidities and complications was very high, and those most frequently observed were arterial hypertension, multinodular goiter, lipid disorders, hypopituitarism and degenerative changes. At least one complication of acromegaly was observed in 92% of patients undergoing successful neurosurgery and in all pharmacologically treated patients. By contrast, two or more complications were observed in 77% of cured patients and in pharmacologically controlled and uncontrolled patients, 82% and 91%, respectively. Conclusions: Acromegaly is associated with a high prevalence of complications. Active acromegaly is associated with a higher incidence of complications than in treated groups. Untreated patients have more complications than treated patients. Successfully cured patients have significantly fewer complications than pharmacologically controlled patients and patients with active acromegaly.

FTO Gene Polymorphisms and Their Roles in Acromegaly

The major causes of both morbidity and mortality in patients with acromegaly are cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The polymorphisms of the fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) are associated with obesity, as well as with an increased risk of CVDs. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship of risk alleles of four FTO gene polymorphisms with selected parameters of lipid and glucose metabolism as well as with IGF-1 and GH levels in the group of patients with acromegaly compared to the control group. The study group consisted of 104 patients with acromegaly and 64 healthy subjects constituting the control group. In the whole acromegaly group, the data reveal that the homozygous for risk allele carriers (rs1421085, rs9930506, rs9939609) as well as carriers of only one risk allele have lower IGF-1 concentrations. In the well-controlled acromegaly group, the homozygous for three risk allele carriers of FTO gene polymorphisms have lower HDL cholesterol concentration (rs1121980, rs1421085, rs993609). In the cured acromegaly group, homozygous risk allele carriers rs9930506 tend to have higher levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. These associations are not observed in the control group. Conclusion: there is an association between FTO gene polymorphisms and the metabolism of lipids, suggesting that the FTO gene may be associated with higher CVD risk in patients with acromegaly. In addition, there is an association between FTO gene polymorphisms and IGF-1, implying that FTO gene may influence/modify IGF-1 synthesis. Further investigation on a larger scale is required to provide more precise evidence.

Ghrelin and Leptin Concentrations in Patients after SARS-CoV2 Infection

SARS-CoV2 infection can lead to severe cytokine storm especially in obese patients. Ghrelin acts not only as an appetite regulator but can also play a key role in the immune reaction. Leptin, secreted mainly by the white adipose tissue, can act as a pro-inflammatory cytokine. The crucial question is whether or not the cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients with obesity is linked to adipokine dysregulation. The aim of this study was to assess ghrelin and leptin concentrations in patients 6 months after SARS-CoV2 infection in comparison to a control group considering the influence of sex. The study group included 53 patients with a history of COVID-19 and 87 healthy subjects in the control group. Leptin and ghrelin concentrations as well as hormonal and biochemical parameters were measured. A significantly higher ghrelin concentration was observed in the COVID-19 group in comparison to the control group, with a statistically significant impact of sex on the relationship between COVID-19 and ghrelin concentration, which was lower in the males. No statistically significant differences in leptin concentration were observed between the groups. A significant negative correlation was observed between ghrelin and testosterone and morning cortisol levels in the COVID-19 group. The current study showed that ghrelin levels were significantly higher in patients 6 months after a mild course of SARS-CoV2 infection. To confirm the hypothetical protective role of ghrelin in the inflammatory process, it would be necessary to compare serum ghrelin levels between patients after mild and severe courses of COVID-19. Due to the small sample size and the lack of patients with a severe course of COVID-19, these observations need further investigation. There were no differences in leptin concentrations between the COVID-19 patients and the control group.

Is H19 RNA a Useful Marker of Acromegaly and Its Complications? A Preliminary Study

Acromegaly is a rare endocrine disorder caused by somatotroph pituitary adenoma. Besides its typical symptoms, it contributes to the development of cardiovascular, metabolic, and bone comorbidities. H19 RNA is a long non-coding RNA and it is suspected to be involved in tumorigenesis, cancer progression, and metastasis. H19 RNA is a novel biomarker for the diagnosis and monitoring of neoplasms. Moreover, there might be an association between H19 and cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. We enrolled 32 acromegaly patients and 25 controls. We investigated whether whole blood H19 RNA expression is associated with the diagnosis of acromegaly. Correlations between H19 and tumour dimension, invasiveness, and biochemical and hormonal parameters were evaluated. We analysed the coincidence of acromegaly comorbidities with H19 RNA expression. In the results, we did not observe a statistically significant difference in H19 RNA expression between acromegaly patients and the controls. There were no correlations between H19 and the adenoma size and infiltration and patients' biochemical and hormonal statuses. In the acromegaly group, hypertension, goitre, and cholelithiasis were observed more frequently. The diagnosis of acromegaly was a factor contributing to the occurrence of dyslipidaemia, goitre, and cholelithiasis. We found an association between H19 and cholelithiasis in acromegaly patients. To conclude, H19 RNA expression is not a relevant marker for diagnosis and monitoring of acromegaly patients. There is a higher risk of hypertension, goitre, and cholelithiasis related to acromegaly. Cholelithiasis is associated with a higher H19 RNA expression.

The clinical complexity of patients with acromegaly

OBJECTIVES

The main aim of the study was to investigate the factors related to the biopsychosocial complexity in the group of patients with acromegaly with different disease activity.

METHODS

A cross-sectional observational study was performed. First, a linguistic adaptation of the INTERMED - self-assessment questionnaire (IMSA) and after that the assessment of the biopsychosocial complexity among patients with acromegaly and the factors which relate to the complexity was made. The following tools were used to assess: biopsychosocial complexity: The INTERMED -self-assessment (IMSA); quality of life: The World Health Organization Quality of Life - BREF (WHOQoL) and Acromegaly Quality of Life questionnaire (AcroQol); mental state: The General Health Questionnaire - 28 (GHQ-28).

RESULTS

The final analysis included 71 patients. According to the principal component analysis the mental state (GHQ-28) and the quality of life (AcroQol) are the most important factors related to the clinical complexity among patients with acromegaly. In the model created by a stepwise regression analysis for the total IMSA score higher growth hormone (GH) concentration, longer illness duration, and better general quality of life were included as the protective factors of the clinical complexity. By contrast, a high score in the severe depression subscale of GHQ-28 was a factor of higher clinical complexity.

CONCLUSION

The mental state and quality of life are the most important determinants of the clinical complexity in the group of patients with acromegaly whereas the biochemical normalization is of lesser importance.

Pasireotide-a novel somatostatin receptor ligand after 20 years of use

Pasireotide, a novel multireceptor-targeted somatostatin receptor ligand (SRL) is characterized by a higher affinity to somatostatin receptor type 5 than type 2, unlike first-generation SRLs. Because of the broader binding profile, pasireotide has been suggested to have a greater clinical efficacy in acromegaly than first-generation SRLs and to be efficacious in Cushing's disease. The consequence of this binding profile is the increased blood glucose level in some patients. This results from the inhibition of both insulin secretion and the incretin effect and only a modest suppression of glucagon. A monthly intramuscular formulation of long-acting release pasireotide has been approved for both acromegaly and Cushing's disease treatment. This review presents data on the efficacy and safety of pasireotide treatment mostly in patients with acromegaly and Cushing's disease. Moreover, other possible therapeutic applications of pasireotide are mentioned.

Osilodrostat - an emerging drug for the medical management of Cushing's disease

Cushing's disease (CD) is a rare endocrine disorder characterized by the overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by pituitary adenoma followed by hypercortisolaemia with severe complications. Although transsphenoidal resection of the defined pituitary adenoma has been the treatment of choice for the past decades, it does not always result in long-term remission - 10-30% of cases show ineffective surgical treatment or tumour recurrence even after initial success. Pharmacological therapies for cortisol reduction are often required for those who either cannot undergo pituitary surgery or when the surgery has failed, and patients still present with the persistent disease. Osilodrostat is a potent oral steroidogenesis inhibitor that has lately been shown as an effective adjuvant therapy in the management of patients with CD. In this article, we review the recent reports on the efficacy and safety of osilodrostat in clinical settings.

Trabecular Bone Score and Osteoprotegerin as Useful Tools in the Assessment of Bone Deterioration in Acromegaly

PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess bone mineral density (BMD) and trabecular bone score (TBS) in 61 patients from the acromegaly group (AG) with regard to the activity of the disease in comparison to 42 patients-control group (CG). We also analyzed selected bone markers and their association with BMD and TBS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD measurements were performed. TBS values were obtained. Serum concentrations of selected bone markers, including osteoprotegerin (OPG), were measured.

RESULTS

We revealed a difference in TBS values between the AG and CG as well as between the TCA (treatment-controlled acromegaly) vs. CG and TCA+CA (cured acromegaly) vs. CG. We did not observe any statistically significant difference in BMD. OPG had a lower concentration in the CG compared to the AG. TBS correlated negatively with OPG in the AG (r = -0.31, p = 0.01) and in the TCA+ CA group (r = -0.3, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The acromegalic patients have altered bone microstructure as indicated by the decreased TBS regardless of the activity of the disease and BMD. OPG could be a marker of the destruction of the bone microstructure, but further studies are needed.

The frequency of TLR2 (rs3804099, rs3804100, and rs5743708) and TLR4 (rs4986790 and rs4986791) polymorphisms in women with polycystic ovary syndrome - preliminary study

INTRODUCTION

Low-grade chronic inflammation may participate in PCOS etiology. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) may play a pivotal role in the initiation and progression of inflammatory process. We examined TLR2 and TLR4 gene polymorphisms in women with PCOS and their associations with metabolic/hormonal parameters.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sixty-eight women qualified for the study. PCOS was diagnosed in 40 women. The control group consisted of 28 women. All patients underwent anamnesis, physical examination, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical/hormonal assessments. The TLRs gene polymorphism was tested using PCR and the minisequencing method.

RESULTS

The frequency of TLR2 gene polymorphisms genotypes (rs3804099, rs3804100, and rs5743708) did not differ significantly between the groups. The difference in frequency of genotypes of TLR4 gene polymorphisms (rs4986790 and rs4986791) was close to the statistical significance level. No significant correlations between TLR2/TLR4 polymorphisms and anthropometric/metabolic parameters in PCOS group were observed. However, the relationship between HDL concentration and TLR2 S450S (rs3804100) polymorphism was close to the statistical significance level. Positive correlations between the two TLR4 polymorphisms (rs4986790 and rs4986791) were found, as well as between the TLR2 S450S (rs3804100) gene polymorphism and FSH concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

The TLR4 gene polymorphism may play a role in the PCOS etiopathogenesis but this observation needs further investigation.

Therapeutic effect of presurgical treatment with longacting octreotide (Sandostatin® LAR®) in patients with acromegaly

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to assess the therapeutic effect and the safety of pre-surgical treatment with long-acting octreotide in patients with acromegaly.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This project was conducted in 25 centres across Poland as a non-interventional, multicentre, observational study in patients with acromegaly, in which long-acting octreotide Sandostatin® LAR®) was administered before surgery. They were 148 patients included into the study: 88 females and 60 males aged 18-86 years (51.3 ± 13.4).

RESULTS

Eighty patients completed the study (underwent tumour surgery). The CRF included: baseline visit, four follow-up visits every three months before surgery, and two follow-up visits every three months after surgery. Sandostatin® LAR® was administered every four weeks. The efficacy measures were as follows: change of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels, number of patients fulfilling criteria of cure, and change of adenoma (micro- and macroadenomas) size during the treatment. Normalisation of GH and IGF-1 concentrations were obtained in 42.4 and 49.1% of patients at the end of medical therapy, respectively. Normalisation of GH and IGF-1 concentrations were obtained in 77.9 and 83.8% of patients after surgery, respectively. Reduction of microadenoma size was documented in 58.8% of patients, and in 70% of patients with macroadenomas at the end of medical therapy. In 74.0% of patients no pituitary tumour was shown on MRI after surgery.

CONCLUSION

We have shown good surgical outcome in patients with acromegaly after pre-treatment with somatostatin analogue, and good tolerance and safety of the therapy, supporting the national recommendation for pre-surgical treatment with long-acting somatostatin analogues in acromegaly patients.

Endocrine complications of new anticancer therapies

Studying and analyzing of complex molecular mechanisms and immunological processes of cancer enables oncology to introduce new cancer therapies. In the treatment of cancer, we successively increase the use of targeted therapies with tyrosine kinase inhibitors and mTOR inhibitors and immunotherapy using checkpoint inhibitors CTLA-4 (cytotoxic T-cell antigen-4) and PD-1/PD-L1 (programmed death receptor 1/programmed death ligand 1). New anticancer drugs gradually replace conventional chemotherapy and have already found application in the treatment of many cancers, including thyroid cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, melanoma, breast cancer, acute and chronic myelogenous leukemia. The use of these drugs is less toxic than classical chemotherapy, but it can cause gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory, skin and endocrine complications. Most of the side effects of new cancer therapies are mild and moderate disorders, however some might be severe and life-threatening. Endocrinopathies are one of the more common side effects of these treatments. They can affect many endocrine glands (pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, pancreas) and cause both transient and permanent disorders.

The Effect of 6 Months' Treatment With Pasireotide LAR on Glucose Metabolism in Patients With Resistant Acromegaly in Real-World Clinical Settings

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate glucose metabolism, as measured by glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and the need for antidiabetic medical treatment, in patients with acromegaly resistant to first-generation somatostatin receptors ligands (SRLs) treated with pasireotide long-acting release (LAR) in real-world clinical practice. Biochemical control of acromegaly, as measured by growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels, was also assessed.

STUDY DESIGN

Two-center retrospective cohort of consecutive patients with acromegaly treated with first-generation SRLs at maximum doses, who had not achieved biochemical disease control. After SRLs were discontinued, patients were given pasireotide LAR 40 mg i.m. every 28 days. The dose was increased to 60 mg i.m. in patients for whom adequate control was not achieved after 3 months. Patients were given dietary and lifestyle advice, and antihyperglycemic treatment was modified as needed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Biochemical disease control parameters (GH and IGF-1 concentration), as well as HbA1c level at baseline and after 6 months.

RESULTS

In total, 39 patients with acromegaly were enrolled. GH concentration decreased (Δ_me =-1.56 µg/L, range -21.38-3.62, p <0.001) during 6 months of pasireotide LAR treatment. A worsening of metabolic status was observed, with an increase of median HbA1c (Δ_me =0.40%, range -0.20%-2.30%, p <0.001), and antihyperglycemic treatment intensification in 23 (59.0%) patients. The median decline in IGF-1 concentration was: -283.0 µg/L, range -682.7-171.6, p <0.001. IGF-1 reached the age- and gender-specific upper level of normal in 23 (59%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Pasireotide LAR is an effective therapeutic option in patients with acromegaly refractory to first-generation SRLs. However, this therapy may result in pasireotide LAR-associated hyperglycemia, which requires early and aggressive antidiabetic medical therapy to prevent glucose homeostasis alterations.

Complications and Comorbidities of Acromegaly-Retrospective Study in Polish Center

INTRODUCTION

In acromegaly, chronic exposure to impaired GH and IGF-I levels leads to the development of typical acromegaly symptoms, and multiple systemic complications as cardiovascular, metabolic, respiratory, endocrine, and bone disorders. Acromegaly comorbidities contribute to decreased life quality and premature mortality. The aim of our study was to assess the frequency of acromegaly complications and to evaluate diagnostic methods performed toward recognition of them.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

It was a retrospective study and we analyzed data of 179 patients hospitalized in the Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Isotope Therapy in Wroclaw Medical University (Poland) in 1976 to 2018 to create a database for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The study group comprised of 119 women (66%) and 60 men (34%). The median age of acromegaly diagnosis was 50.5 years old for women (age range 20-78) and 46 for men (range 24-76). Metabolic disorders (hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and prediabetes) were the most frequently diagnosed complications in our study, followed by cardiovascular diseases and endocrine disorders (goiter, pituitary insufficiency, osteoporosis). BP measurement, ECG, lipid profile, fasting glucose or OGTT were performed the most often, while colonoscopy and echocardiogram were the least frequent.

CONCLUSIONS

In our population we observed female predominance. We revealed a decrease in the number of patients with active acromegaly and an increase in the number of well-controlled patients. More than 50% of patients demonstrated a coexistence of cardiac, metabolic and endocrine disturbances and only 5% of patients did not suffer from any disease from those main groups.

Bone densitometry by radiofrequency echographic multi-spectrometry (REMS) in acromegaly patients

INTRODUCTION

Radiofrequency echographic multi-spectrometry (REMS) is a recently introduced non-ionising technology employed in the evaluation of osteoporosis. The aim of our study was to compare bone mineral density (BMD) in acromegaly patients and healthy controls by performing novel REMS densitometry. The second objective was to analyse the correlation between results of REMS and classical dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in acromegaly patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We enrolled 33 patients with acromegaly (AG) and 24 controls (CG). The acromegaly patients were divided into two subgroups: well-controlled acromegaly (WCA) and surgery-cured acromegaly (SCA). REMS was performed in all participants, while DXA was performed only in the acromegaly group. IGF-I and GH levels were measured in acromegaly patients.

RESULTS

Bone mineral density of the lumbar spine (LS) and the femoral neck (FN) obtained from REMS did not reveal significant differences between AG, CG, WCA, and SCA. Similarly, there were no significant differences in BMD measured by DXA at the LS and at the FN between WCA and SCA. Significant positive correlations between IGF-I concentrations and BMD obtained from both REMS and DXA were detected in the AG and WCA. In the AG and WCA, there were positive correlations between T-scores and LS BMD obtained from both methods.

CONCLUSIONS

Radiofrequency echographic multi-spectrometry is a potential method in assessment of bone status in acromegaly. Further studies with participation of active disease patients are needed.

Acromegaly associated with GIST, non-small cell lung carcinoma, clear cell renal carcinoma, multiple myeloma, medulla oblongata tumour, adrenal adenoma, and follicular thyroid nodules

Acromegaly is associated with increased growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) secretion which may support tumour development and growth. A 68-year-old woman was diagnosed with acromegaly due to typical clinical and hormonal characteristics. While contrast-enhanced MRI at diagnosis did not reveal a pituitary adenoma, a 5-mm lesion was identified on repeat scanning 13 months later. Abdominal and chest CT showed tumours of the stomach, right adrenal gland, and right lung. The CT also showed a hypodense lesion in the liver and heterogeneous echostructure of the thyroid gland with left lobe solid-cystic tumour. Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy revealed increased tracer accumulation in the right thyroid lobe. No tracer accumulation was noted at the location of the other tumours. The resected stomach, adrenal, chest, and thyroid lesions did not show GH secretion. The patient refused pituitary surgery, and her acromegaly is currently well-controlled with somatostatin analogue therapy. A CT scan 19 months later revealed a contrast-enhancing left kidney tumour that was a G1-grade clear cell carcinoma. Four years after the acromegaly diagnosis multiple myeloma were diagnosed with secondary renal amyloidosis. Genetic screening for a paraganglioma gene panel, AIP, MEN1, and CDKN1B mutations were negative. A next-generation cancer panel containing 94 cancer genes did not identify any possible unifying gene abnormality in her germline DNA. Coexistence of acromegaly and numerous other tumours suggests a common aetiology of these disorders. However, no genetic abnormality could be identified with the tests that have been performed.

MicroRNA Expression in the Progression and Aggressiveness of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma

In the last two decades microRNAs have received great attention in research because of their ability to regulate gene expression. Many studies have shown that defects in different microRNA molecules are linked to many diseases; however, their contribution towards thyroid disease has not been fully explored. Herein, we present a short review of the present state of knowledge on microRNAs, such as their origin, their biogenesis and biological function, as well as their differential expression in papillary thyroid carcinoma. Dysregulated microRNA has been closely linked to thyroid dysfunction and oncogenicity leading to this type of thyroid cancer. The effects of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in microRNA are also discussed with respect to papillary thyroid carcinoma.

Association of Vitamin D Receptor Polymorphisms With Activity of Acromegaly, Vitamin D Status and Risk of Osteoporotic Fractures in Acromegaly Patients

Introduction: The vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene is one of the most widely studied tumorigenesis-related genes. The primary objective of this study was assessment of possible roles of VDR gene polymorphisms in acromegaly, with regard to the activity of the disease and compared them with a control group. Furthermore, we have assessed the associations between these polymorphisms with vitamin D status as well as with TBS (trabecular bone score) and risk for osteoporotic fracture in acromegaly patients. Materials and Methods: We studied 69 patients with acromegaly and 51 healthy controls (CG). Acromegaly patients were divided into three subgroups on the basis of disease activity (AA, active acromegaly; CD, controlled disease; CA, cured acromegaly). In all patients, blood samples were obtained to assess the hormonal and metabolic status as well as genetic analysis. VDR polymorphisms were determined by means of two methods, Polymerase Chain Reactions (PCR) and minisequencing (SNaPshot). Results: Genotype frequencies for VDR ApaI, TaqI, BsmI, and FokI polymorphisms did not deviate significantly from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) in the acromegaly group as well as in the control group. There was no statistically significant difference in distributions of these four VDR genotypes between acromegaly patients and the control group. This study revealed statistically significant negative correlation between risk of major osteoporotic fractures and genotypes tt (TaqI), aa (ApaI) and bb (BsmI) in acromegaly groups. Furthermore, the negative correlations were observed between TBS and risk for major osteoporotic fractures and hip fractures. Conclusions: Our study suggests that tt (TaqI), aa (ApaI) and bb (BsmI) of VDR gene may be associated with better bone quality and microarchitecture (higher TBS), which lead to a lower risk of osteoporotic fractures in acromegaly patients. TBS may be a useful tool for predicting risk of fractures in acromegaly patients.

Importance of Illness Acceptance Among Other Factors Affecting Quality of Life in Acromegaly

Introduction: The aim of this study was to analyze psychological factors of patients with acromegaly and assessment of their relationship with the quality of life (QoL) in the context of the control of the disease. Materials and methods: A total sample of 50 patients (62% of females; mean age = 51.66 ± 14.5) with acromegaly underwent a comparative, cross-sectional cohort assessment including the QoL (AcroQoL, WHOQoL-BREF), psychiatric morbidity (GHQ-28), the acceptance of illness (AIS) as well as influence of treatment, comorbidities and symptoms in the relation of disease activity. Acromegaly group was divided in two subgroups: patients with uncontrolled acromegaly (UA, n = 28) and patients with controlled acromegaly (CA, n = 22). Results: The acromegaly groups did not differ in health-related QoL measured with AcroQoL and WHOQoL questionnaires. However, obtained results showed QoL impairments in all subscales and the study participants had decreased scores compared to reference values. The interaction of the relationship between the AIS and disease activity as well as the prevalence of all psychopathological symptoms and disease activity were tested and the statistically significantly differences in the context of QoL in AcroQoL questionnaires and its domains were observed in relation to the course of the disease. No difference in acromegaly symptoms as well as in number of comorbidities were found between CA and UA but these two parameters affected the results QoL scores in AcroQol questionnaires and their domains, regardless the disease activity. Similarly, the prevalence of psychopathological symptoms (GHQ-28) contributed the level of acceptance of the disease, regardless the disease activity. The strongest predictors of QoL were related to the level of illness acceptance (p = 0.01) as well as serum growth hormone concentration. Conclusion: Minding people with UA, the control of biochemical factors seemed to be more important for the QoL perception, while among CA, psychological variables such as AIS are observed to play a fundamental role in QoL. Moreover, inclusion of patient's acceptance of the illness into clinical routine would promote holistic, patient-centered care and empower doctor-patient partnership where patients' expectations and perceptions are constantly tracked. Obtaining biochemical control should not be considered as the only measure of treatment success.

Association between FTO gene polymorphisms and HDL cholesterol concentration may cause higher risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with acromegaly

INTRODUCTION

Cardiovascular diseases are main cause of morbidity and mortality in acromegaly. Polymorphisms of FTO gene are associated with obesity and increased risk of CVD (independently of BMI). Aim of this study was to investigate the allele frequencies of two FTO gene polymorphisms: rs9939609 and rs9930506 in patients with acromegaly and to examine the association of FTO gene polymorphisms with BMI and selected metabolic parameters.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Identification of two single nucleotide polymorphisms of FTO gene was carried out in 51 patients with acromegaly using the minisequencing method.

RESULTS

The risk-allele frequencies of rs9939609 and rs9930506 polymorphisms were 0.471 and 0.529, respectively and they were higher than in general European population. There is no association of FTO gene polymorphisms with BMI, glucose, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglyceride. The risk alleles were associated with decreased HDL cholesterol concentration. Homozygotes for the rs9939609-risk allele had 1.25-fold lower HDL cholesterol concentration than carriers of the TT genotype (p = 0.0024). The estimated average decrease in HDL cholesterol concentration per risk allele for rs9930506 was 11.2%. Nevertheless, statistically significant differences were observed only between AG versus GG and AA versus GG genotypes. Homozygotes for the rs9930506-risk allele had 1.27-fold lower HDL cholesterol concentration than carriers of the AA genotype (p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

The risk-allele frequencies of studied polymorphisms in acromegaly were higher than in general European population. There is an association between FTO gene polymorphisms and HDL cholesterol concentration, suggesting FTO gene polymorphisms may be associated with higher CVD risk in patients with acromegaly.

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma with rapid thyrotoxicosis - a case report and the literature review

INTRODUCTION

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is one of the most aggressive human malignancies and constitutes approximately 1.6-5% of the malignant neoplasms of the thyroid gland. ATC usually manifests itself with the local symptoms due to a rapidly enlarging thyroid mass, and as other thyroid cancers, has only seldom been reported to cause thyrotoxicosis. Up to now only 9 cases of ATC with concomitant thyrotoxicosis have been described.

CASE REPORT

We report a rare case of a 66-year-old woman, who had had the preexisting large, euthyroid multinodular goiter for almost 50 years. She was consulted by a doctor because of a 4-week history of thyrotoxicosis, symptoms of the congestive heart failure and a rapid increase in the size of the goiter. Thyroid hormone levels were consistent with a hyperthyroid state. The fine-needle aspiration biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of the anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, the small cells variant. The 99m Tc-pertechnetate scintigraphy visualized non-homogenous tracer distribution with hot nodules. She was given a doxorubicin (20 mg/week) and required the continuous antithyroid treatment. The patient died a one year after the first symptoms of the disease occurred.

DISCUSSION

The association between ATC and a thyrotoxic state is very rare. In most cases, thyrotoxicosis concomitant with ATC was thought to be a result of the destruction of the thyroid follicles by the rapid infiltration with malignant cells, resulting in the leakage of preformed hormones to the circulation. In that case the most probable cause of thyrotoxicosis was the multinodular goiter coexisting with ATC. A simultaneous onset of tumor growth, thyrotoxicosis and a relatively long survival time of our patient is worth to notice and discuss.

Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 in Patients with Acromegaly

Introduction The goal of the study was to investigate fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21) levels in acromegalic patients in relation to the disease activity and to compare them with controls. Further, we aimed to evaluate the associations between FGF-21 and random growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), metabolic and anthropometric parameters.

Materials and methods The study group consisted of 50 acromegalic patients divided into 3 subgroups on the basis of disease activity (AA – active acromegaly, CD – controlled disease, CA – cured acromegaly). 27 subjects were assigned to the control group (CG). Blood samples were obtained from all participants to assess FGF-21, GH, IGF-1, lipids, glucose and insulin levels. Body mass, body mass index and body composition were also evaluated.

Results There were no statistically significant differences in FGF-21 concentrations across all groups despite of subjects classification. FGF-21 correlated positively with random GH in the groups: CA, CD+CA, AA+CD+CA (r=0.48, p=0.049; r=0.39, p=0.023; r=0.33, p=0.02; respectively); with IGF-1 in the AA+CD+CA group (r=0.29, p=0.041); with triglycerides in the following groups: CD, CD+CA, AA+CD+CA (r=0.63, p=0.08; r=0.44, p=0.01; r=0.37, p=0.007; respectively) and with age in the CG and CD+CA groups (r=0.41, p=0.029; r=0.42, p=0.029; respectively). There were statistically significant negative correlations between FGF-21 and HDL-cholesterol levels in the groups: CD, CD+CA, AA+CD+CA (r=-0.53, p=0.03; r=-0.37, p=0.032; r=-0.29, p=0.036, respectively).

Conclusions FGF-21 levels were similar in patients with acromegaly compared to controls. However, our results indicate that FGF-21 may have a potential role in the development of acromegaly complications.

Is there any difference in acromegaly and other chronic disease in quality of life and psychiatric morbidity?

INTRODUCTION

The study aimed to evaluate the psychological profile of patients with acromegaly in comparison to other chronic diseases such as non-functioning pituitary adenomas, Cushing disease, and plaque psoriasis, and to a healthy control group.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total sample of 153 participants in clinical groups underwent a cross-sectional assessment including the quality of life (AcroQoL, WHOQoL-BREF), psychiatric morbidity (GHQ-28), and the acceptance of illness (AIS), as well as 65 participants in the healthy control group.

RESULTS

The whole study sample had a predominance of urban married females (61%) with medium level of education (41%). Patients with acromegaly were diagnosed significantly later than patients from other clinical groups, after the onset of the first symptoms. Acromegaly was related to the presence of more symptoms of anxiety and insomnia, and poorer social relationships compared with the general population but not more than in other chronic diseases. A better quality of life score in all domains of WHOQoL-BREF was associated with a better score on the acceptance of illness scale and lower scores on GHQ-28.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychiatric morbidity, mainly anxiety and insomnia, occurs in 50% of patients with acromegaly. However, the psychological wellbeing and mood seem to be related to other factors such as the acceptance of the illness. Thus, concerning the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of acromegaly an interdisciplinary approach, taking into account psychological and psychiatric consultation, is needed.

Soluble α-Klotho - a new marker of acromegaly?

INTRODUCTION

Klotho is a transmembrane protein that attenuates insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) signalling and appears to be involved in ageing. Recent data suggest that soluble a-Klotho (sKlotho) is also elevated in acromegaly. The aim of this study was to assess serum levels of sKlotho in patients in relation to the activity of the disease and to compare with the control group.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We studied 55 patients with acromegaly and 29 healthy controls (CG). Patients were divided into three subgroups according to minimal GH (growth hormone) concentration during the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and the IGF-1 concentration: a surgically cured acromegalic group (SCA), well-controlled acromegalic group (WCA), and active acromegaly group (AA). In all subjects, blood samples were taken to assess the concentration of sKlotho, GH, IGF-1, and biochemical markers.

RESULTS

Soluble a-Klotho was highest in the AA group and lowest in the SCA group. The differences in sKlotho levels were statistically significant when the AA group was compared to the SCA, WCA, and CG groups (p = 0.000, p = 0.002, p = 0.001, respectively). There were no significant differences in sKlotho levels among the SCA, WCA, and CG groups. sKlotho positively correlated with GH levels in the WCA and WCA + SCA groups (r = 0.666, p = 0.009; r = 0.366, p = 0.047, respectively) and with the IGF-1 level in the AA group (r = 0.589, p = 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

sKlotho is increased in active acromegaly and normalises after successful treatment. It could be a new biomarker of acromegaly activity. (Endokrynol Pol 2016; 67 (4): 390-396).

Patients with Active Acromegaly are at High Risk of 25(OH)D Deficiency

Acromegaly is a chronic disease characterized by hypersecretion of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Electrolyte disturbances such as hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia are reported in patients with this disorder. There is limited data on vitamin D status in subjects with acromegaly. The aim of the study was to determine calcium, inorganic phosphate, magnesium, alkaline phosphatase, and 25(OH)D levels with regard to the activity of the disease. We also studied correlations of 25(OH)D and IGF-1, GH, body mass, body mass index, and age. A study group consisted of 55 acromegalic patients, and was divided into three subgroups: active acromegaly (AA), well-controlled acromegaly (WCA), cured acromegaly (CA). We enrolled 29 healthy subjects to a control group (CG). Vitamin D deficiency was recorded in all AA patients, 13 WCA patients (92.86%), 10 CA patients (62.5%), and 13 controls (54.17%). The highest 25(OH)D levels were found in the CG group and the lowest in the AA group (p = 0.012). The dose of octreotide did not influence serum 25(OH)D levels. A significant positive correlation between IGF-1 and 25(OH)D levels was observed in the AA group (r = 0.58, p = 0.024). Inorganic phosphate levels were the highest in the AA group. In conclusion, active acromegalic patients have lower 25(OH)D levels in comparison with the CG and are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency.

Osteoporosis in pituitary diseases: lessons for the clinic

Osteoporosis is a systemic disease characterized by bone mass and density loss leading to fragility fractures. Osteoporosis due to endocrine disorders is an example of secondary osteoporosis. The harmful effects on bones are common in patients harboring pituitary tumors (acromegaly, prolactinoma, Cushing's disease) and suffering from hypopituitarism. Increased fracture risk and high healthcare costs of fractured patients are their consequences. The coexistence of some of these disorders and hypogonadism results in severe osteoporosis. The influence of the certain diseases, their activity and therapy and accompanying hypogonadism on bone turnover, bone mineral density and fracture incidence is presented.

The quality of life and psychological, social and cognitive functioning of patients with acromegaly

Acromegaly is a rare and chronic disease, most often caused by a pituitary adenoma. Excessive secretion of the growth hormone (GH) leads to hepatic secretion of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which in turn causes characteristic changes in the patient's appearance, many skeletal deformities and metabolic disorders. In addition to somatic symptoms, acromegalic patients demonstrate psychosocial and personality deficits, as well as common co-occurrence of mental disorders. There are few studies investigating acromegaly in Poland. In recent years, the concept of quality of life has become fundamental to understanding health problems. Studies dealing with acromegaly likewise tend to include assessments of quality of life of patients suffering from this endocrinopathy.

Pituitary disorders and osteoporosis

Various hormonal disorders can influence bone metabolism and cause secondary osteoporosis. The consequence of this is a significant increase of fracture risk. Among pituitary disorders such effects are observed in patients with Cushing's disease, hyperprolactinemia, acromegaly, and hypopituitarism. Severe osteoporosis is the result of the coexistence of some of these disorders and hypogonadism at the same time, which is quite often.

Interesting coincidence of atypical TSH-secreting pituitary adenoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Thyrotropin-secreting adenomas (TSH-oma) are very rare pituitary tumours. They are macroadenomas usually presenting with signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism, and mass effects. They can co-secrete other hormones such as growth hormone or prolactin. Different malignancies, including haematological ones, are reported in patients with pituitary diseases. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) occurs mostly in older patients, more often in males. CLL is associated with increased risk of second malignancies such as other blood neoplasms, skin and solid tumours. We present a successful neurosurgical outcome in a patient with an interesting coincidence of atypical TSH-oma and asymptomatic CLL.

The role of orexin A in metabolic disturbances in patients with acromegaly

INTRODUCTION

It has been reported that orexins may play an important role in GH regulation. Orexins participate in the regulation of pituitary hormones secretion, food intake regulation, and the sleep-wake cycle. It has been suggested that a defect of orexin A synthesis could be responsible for disturbances in GH synthesis in patients with acromegaly, and consequently aggravate metabolic disturbances caused by high levels of IGF1.

THE AIM OF THIS STUDY

THE AIM OF THIS STUDY was to assess orexin A levels in relation to the activity of the disease and the influence on metabolic profile in patients with acromegaly.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The subjects were 55 acromegalic patients divided into three main groups: a surgically cured acromegalic group (SCA); a well-controlled acromegalic group (WCA); an active acromegalic group (AA); and 29 healthy controls. In all subjects, blood samples were taken to assess the concentration of orexin A, lipids, glucose, insulin and hormones of the pituitary and peripheral glands.

RESULTS

The concentration of orexin A was highest in the control group (CG) and lowest in the WCA group. The differences of orexin A concentration were statistically significant when each group of acromegalics were compared to the CG. There were no significant differences in orexin A concentration among the studied groups of patients with acromegaly. The metabolic disturbances were more often observed in the groups of acromegaly patients. In the AA group, orexin A concentrations correlated negatively with plasma lipids.

CONCLUSIONS

The concentration of orexin A is reduced in acromegaly compared to healthy subjects.