Psychological Profiles of Patients With Acromegaly: Personality Traits, Quality of Life, and Clinical Correlates

Abstract Objective This study evaluated temperament, character dimensions, anxiety, depression, and quality of life in patients with acromegaly, and examined their associations with clinical variables including disease activity, duration, treatment modality, and tumor characteristics. Methods In a cross-sectional study, 77 patients with acromegaly and 99 age- and sex-matched healthy controls completed the Temperament and Character Inventory-Revised, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Acromegaly Quality of Life Questionnaire. Patients were subgrouped by remission status, treatment type, and histopathological findings. Comparative analyses and correlation tests were performed. Results Compared with controls, patients with acromegaly showed higher impulsiveness, shyness, and social approval seeking, but lower persistence, self-directedness, emotional warmth, and quality of life. Remission was associated with greater self-acceptance and higher quality of life scores. IGF-1 levels positively correlated with novelty seeking. Patients receiving only medical therapy demonstrated more favorable psychological profiles and quality of life than those undergoing surgery or radiosurgery. Lower compassion, attachment, and work-related perseverance were linked to macroadenomas, residual adenomas, or sparsely granulated tumors. Conclusions Acromegaly is associated with distinct personality patterns that may influence coping, well-being, and treatment experiences. These findings underscore the potential value of integrating psychosocial assessment and personalized support into the management of acromegaly, and highlight the need for further studies to clarify underlying neurobiological and cultural influences.