Man's life saved by handshake

A handshake was all it took for a doctor to make the astounding diagnosis that would change Mark Gurrieri's life. Mr Gurrieri, 36, was working at a restaurant when a friend there for lunch introduced him to his dining partner, 46-year-old Woodford Green GP Chris Britt.

The men shook hands, and Dr Britt immediately noticed Mr Gurrieri's huge, spongy-feeling hand, and his large facial features. The chance meeting was enough for Dr Britt to realise Mr Gurrieri had acromegaly, the condition responsible for giantism when it occurs in children.



The condition, which causes an excess of growth hormone, is seen in just three people per million, and can have serious effects if left undiagnosed.

Dr Britt said: "A tumour in the pituitary gland causes it. It's a benign tumour, but it can cause problems with vision, because it's growing and touching your optic nerves, and can cause diabetes and blood pressure problems." If untreated acromegaly can also cause premature death.



Mr Gurrieri immediately booked an appointment with his GP, and tests confirmed he had the rare condition. In January he underwent an operation to remove the 2cm tumour growing at the base of his brain.

The operation removed 92 per cent of the tumour, but Mr Gurrieri must now take medication and keep an eye on the remains of the tumour to keep the condition under control. "My mum thinks Chris is my guardian angel," joked Mr Gurrieri, of Loughton.