Improved AcroQoL scores in acromegaly after sagittal split ramus osteotomy with Le Fort I osteotomy

Abstract

Summary

Acromegaly is associated with a low quality of life (QoL), which is partially attributable to appearance. However, appearance changes are only partially reversible with treatments of growth hormone excess. This case study describes a 41-year-old Japanese man who presented with mandibular prognathism. Acromegaly was suspected because of the patient’s facial features. Subsequent examination revealed a pituitary tumour with elevated levels of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), confirming a diagnosis of acromegaly. We assessed his QoL with the acromegaly QoL questionnaire (AcroQoL) before transsphenoidal surgery, and all AcroQoL scores were low. Although the pituitary adenoma was resected, his serum IGF1 levels started to increase again and MRI identified a residual pituitary lesion. After lanreotide and pegvisomant injection therapies improved his serum IGF1 levels, we reassessed his AcroQoL scores, however, the results showed worsening scores regarding appearance and personal relationships, and the patient expressed interest in surgery for mandibular prognathism. We performed sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) with Le Fort I osteotomy, thus, the patient’s AcroQoL scores improved. This case shows that SSRO with Le Fort I osteotomy for mandibular prognathism, rather than control of serum IGF1 level alone, improved the patient’s AcroQoL score, especially for both psychological well-being and approval of appearance. Acromegaly has many complications, including its negative impact on patients’ perception of their appearance and patients’ QoL can be improved using multiple options, in addition to controlling growth hormone levels.

Learning points

• The patient’s AcroQoL scores worsened despite biochemical normalization of IGF-1 levels.

• Mandibular prognathism due to acromegaly can be successfully operated by performing sagittal split ramus osteotomy with Le Fort I osteotomy.

• Frequent monitoring of AcroQoL scores and appropriate response to negative results can improve the overall QoL.