Acromegalic cardiomyopathy: a review of the literature.

Acromegaly is characterized by a high prevalence of cardiovascular complications that account for increased morbidity and mortality. Several studies emphasized the role of GH and IGF-1 excess in cardiac dysfunction. Coexisting factors such as hypertension, glucose tolerance abnormalities and coronary artery disease have a potential role in the progression of the acromegalic cardiomyopathy. Herein, we review the most relevant pathophysiological, functional and morphological findings in this specific disease.