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Acromegaly in cats is most commonly associated with which three conditions?
Hypoadrenocorticism, Congestive heart failure, Hepatic lipidosis
Hyperadrenocorticism, Pleural effusion, Lameness
Diabetes mellitus, Cardiomyopathy, Renal disease
Prognathism, Pulmonary edema, Pulmonary Hypertension
The correct answer is: Diabetes mellitus, Cardiomyopathy, Renal disease
The association of acromegaly in cats with diabetes mellitus, cardiomyopathy, and renal disease can be understood through the underlying pathophysiology of the condition. Acromegaly occurs due to excessive growth hormone secretion, often caused by a growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma. Diabetes mellitus commonly occurs in cats with acromegaly because the excess growth hormone leads to insulin resistance, impairing glucose metabolism and resulting in hyperglycemia. This hormonal imbalance creates a metabolic state that predisposes these cats to develop diabetes, making this condition highly relevant. Cardiomyopathy, specifically hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, can also develop in cats with acromegaly due to the increased demand on the heart and changes in myocardial structure driven by high growth hormone levels. The heart may adapt with increased muscle mass, which can lead to functional changes and potential heart failure. Renal disease is often seen in cats with diabetes as well, but it can also be part of the overall health decline associated with aging and systemic issues that arise from uncontrolled metabolic diseases, such as diabetes. These conditions collectively highlight the systemic effects of excess growth hormone and the ways in which it can influence multiple organ systems in affected cats. Understanding these associations is critical