What condition is caused by an overproduction of growth hormone in adults?

Acromegaly is a condition that arises from an excessive production of growth hormone (GH) in adults, typically due to a benign tumor on the pituitary gland. This overproduction leads to the enlargement of bones and tissues, particularly in the hands, feet, and face.

In adults, the epiphyseal plates in long bones have closed, which means that rather than increasing in height, the bones thicken and the body becomes larger overall. This condition often leads to characteristic physical changes, such as enlarged facial features, and can also result in other health complications like diabetes, hypertension, and risk of certain cancers due to the prolonged effects of elevated growth hormone levels.

The other options listed do not relate specifically to the overproduction of growth hormone in adults. Pituitary dwarfism is a result of insufficient growth hormone during childhood, inflammation and tetany are conditions related to other disorders affecting muscles and electrolytes, respectively. Thus, acromegaly is the appropriate choice for a condition linked to an excess of growth hormone in adults.