What condition results from excess growth hormone in adults?

The correct answer is acromegaly, which is the condition that arises from an excess of growth hormone in adults. In adults, excessive growth hormone leads to an increase in the size of bones and tissues. This results in characteristic physical changes such as enlarged hands and feet, facial changes (such as a protruding jaw and enlarged nose), and thickened skin. The underlying cause is typically a benign tumor on the pituitary gland, known as an adenoma, which secretes excessive amounts of growth hormone.

In contrast, dwarfism is associated with insufficient growth hormone during childhood, leading to stunted growth. Cushing's syndrome is related to excess cortisol rather than growth hormone, resulting in a range of symptoms including weight gain and skin changes. Gigantism also arises from excess growth hormone but occurs prior to the closure of growth plates in the bones during childhood, leading to abnormally tall stature.

Thus, acromegaly is uniquely characterized by symptoms that manifest in adulthood due to excess growth hormone post-growth plate fusion, distinguishing it from the other conditions listed.