Background: Acromegaly is an infrequent disorder where the body generates excessive growth hormone (GH) and other growth factors such as insulin-like agents. If remain untreated, it can cause various complications and an increased rate of mortality in these patients. There are three treatment modalities for acromegaly, including surgery, radiotherapy, and medical treatment. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) can also be considered as an adjuvant or alternative option for cases where surgery is unsuitable.
Methods: In this study, a systematic review was done through PubMed, Elsevier, Wiley and Springer databases using the keywords acromegaly therapy, radiosurgery, and transsphenoidal surgery. At last, 15 studies were selected for review, all of which were conducted between 2010 and 2021.
Results: The result of this review showed that SRS (GKRS and LINAC SRS) can be performed after failure of surgery and medical therapy to improve endocrine and biochemical control as well as the quality of life in patients with acromegaly. However, further studies are recommended to evaluate the side effects of these treatments.
Conclusion: All three types of treatment (surgery, radiotherapy and medical treatment) can lead to positive outcomes in patients with acromegaly if performed in right sequence with proper indications.
Key words: Acromegaly, Radiosurgery, Radiotherapy, Pituitary Gland, Pituitary Neoplasms
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