European Journal of Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry

Prosthodontic Rehabilitation for a Patient with Acromegaly

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Cover Date

September 2014

Print ISSN

0965-7452

Vol

22

Issue

3

Abstract

Abstract - Acromegaly is a condition which results from an excess of growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland after epiphyseal plate closure at puberty. The most common cause of acromegaly is a benign pituitary adenoma. Acromegaly is characterised by enlargement of the hands, feet, nose and ears; expansion of the skull and pronounced brow protrusion. From an oral standpoint, the most relevant symptoms are mandibular protrusion, spacing of the lower teeth and macroglossia. A 46 year-old patient was referred to University Dental School and Hospital by her General Dental Practitioner. The patient had been diagnosed with acromegaly and was receiving medical care from a consultant endocrinologist. The patient was partially dentate with only her lower anterior dentition remaining. She was wearing a complete upper denture but was unable to function effectively due to a lack of occlusal support. Treatment comprised non-surgical periodontal management, construction of upper and lower removable prostheses in a class III relationship and composite restorations on the remaining lower teeth.

KEY WORDS: Acromegaly, Removable Prosthodontics, Rehabilitation