Self-image in patients with acromegaly: a cross-sectional study in Brazil

Acromegaly is characterized by excess growth hormone (GH) in adults between 30 and 50 years. The disease presents clinical manifestations, such as growth of the extremities and facial asymmetry. The main objective of the study was to describe the psychosocial impacts of physical alterations of acromegaly on self - image. A cross-sectional retrospective study was carried out in a sample of 71 patients from the state of Bahia, using the Acromegaly Quality of Life Questionnaire. The focus group technique was also used, from which a content analysis explored psychosocial aspects. Most participants look different in the mirror. Most women, however, perceive themselves as ugly and look awful in their photographs, while more than half of the men perceive the look of the other on account of their physical appearance. There was a significant correlation between self-concept change and mood. The qualitative results indicated that physical changes are more uncomfortable than other manifestations, since they impact on areas of life such as emotional and work. It was evidenced the impact that the alteration in the self - image can bring to the social and psychological level in the life of the acromegalic.