Based on experimental and animal models, epidemiological data from non-acromegaly populations, and longitudinal and cross-sectional cohorts of patients with acromegaly, a potential association between acromegaly and cancer has long been hypothesized, in particular colorectal cancer, and to a lesser extent breast, thyroid, and prostate cancers.
The exact mechanisms underlying this potential association have not been fully elucidated. Results from studies examining cancer incidence and mortality in acromegaly have been inconsistent, with some demonstrating increased risk, while others show no increase. This article reviews the existing data relating to cancer risk and mortality in acromegaly, exploring limitations of study designs and the impact of changes in disease control and patient outcomes over time.
European journal of endocrinology / European Federation of Endocrine Societies. 2016 Apr 18 [Epub ahead of print]
Cesar Luiz Boguszewski, John Ayuk
C Boguszewski, SEMPR-Serviço de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Hospital de Clinicas da Universidade Federal do Parana, Curitiba, 80030110, Brazil J Ayuk, Endocrinology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.