Patient Story Editorial - Traci
With Acromegaly, You Are Your Best Advocate
“Acromegaly is a frustrating disease. And when it comes to breakthrough symptoms, doctors may not know or validate the concerns we have.”
In her job as an asthma educator, Traci spent her time advocating for patients and encouraging them to be proactive and ask the right questions with their doctors. So, when she received her diagnosis of acromegaly, Traci was prepared to be her own advocate in getting the best care and treatment she could; a philosophy she continues to embody 11 years later.
The pituitary journey of a 26-year-old patient in the UK is highlighted in an article in miltonkeynes.co.uk. Caroline Watson was first diagnosed at age 13 and has had two surgeries so far. Initially doctors discounted her swollen body and told her to just go on a diet. Now she is helping raise funds for research. 
This month the PNA Medical Corner spotlights an article in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, co-authored by PNA members Dr. William White and Andrew Little. Researchers looked at the feasibility of using confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) to assess tiny structures in the pituitary during transsphenoidal surgery. The study used cadavers and biopsied pituitary slices. The authors conclude that CLE, using fluorescein to provide contrast, merits future studies.
