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Example of excess pituitary hormone caused by hypersecretion in the pituitary gland

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Final answer:

Excessive pituitary hormone secretion due to hypersecretion can result in gigantism if it occurs in childhood, leading to abnormal growth, as reflected in the example of Martin Van Buren Bates.

Step-by-step explanation:

An example of excessive hormone secretion due to hypersecretion in the pituitary gland is gigantism, which occurs when there is an overproduction of growth hormone (GH).

Gigantism is usually caused by a pituitary tumor that leads to the excessive release of GH. If this condition begins in childhood, characterized by the rapid growth of bones, it results in very long arms and legs and an abnormally tall stature by adulthood.

Martin Van Buren Bates, who grew to at least 7 feet 9 inches tall, is an example of an individual affected by gigantism, presumed to have resulted from hypersecretion of GH initiated around 6 years of age. This is distinct from hypersecretion occurring in adults, which can lead to acromegaly, involving the enlargement of bones in the face, hands, and feet.

Hypersecretion in the pituitary gland can cause excess pituitary hormone production. For example, a tumor in the pituitary gland can lead to hypersecretion of growth hormone, resulting in a condition called gigantism.

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