A boy grew rapidly and reached a height of 6'2" by the time he was 13. He had normal body proportions and sexual development was only slightly retarded. Which of the following caused his condition?
A) an adrenal tumor that secretes androgens
B) hypersecretion of testosterone
C) elevated vitamin D synthesis
D) hypersecretion of growth hormone
E) hyposecretion of growth hormone

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hypersecretion of growth hormone can result in excessive growth and a condition called gigantism. It is possible for gigantism to occur even with normal body proportions, as in this case. The slightly retarded sexual development may be due to the fact that growth hormone affects the timing and rate of sexual maturation, and excessive growth hormone can delay this process. The other choices are unlikely to cause this particular condition.

A Boy Grew Rapidly and Reached a Height of 6'2