Answer:
The three conditions related to alterations in growth hormone are:
1. Gigantism: Gigantism is a condition that occurs when there is an excessive amount of growth hormone during childhood and adolescence. This results in excessive growth of the long bones, leading to abnormal tall stature. An example of gigantism is the condition known as "Andre the Giant," where the wrestler had excessive growth due to a pituitary tumor producing excess growth hormone.
2. Acromegaly: Acromegaly is a condition that occurs when there is an excessive amount of growth hormone during adulthood. Unlike gigantism, where excessive growth occurs before the growth plates close, acromegaly occurs after the growth plates have closed. The excessive growth hormone affects the soft tissues and bones, resulting in enlargement of the hands, feet, facial features, and internal organs. An example of acromegaly is the actor Richard Kiel, who played the character "Jaws" in the James Bond movies, and had enlarged facial features due to excess growth hormone (lol)
3. Dwarfism: Dwarfism is a condition that occurs when there is a deficiency or lack of growth hormone. This leads to stunted growth and shorter stature compared to individuals of the same age. There are different causes of dwarfism, including genetic factors and pituitary gland abnormalities. An example of dwarfism is the actor Peter Dinklage, who has achondroplasia, a common type of dwarfism caused by a genetic mutation. These three conditions related to alterations in growth hormone highlight the importance of balanced levels of growth hormone for normal growth and development.