3rd Century Roman Giant with Gigantism and Pituitary Tumor Discovered Near Rome

3rd Century Roman Giant with Gigantism and Pituitary Tumor Discovered Near Rome. 1991 excavation near Rome found 3rd century CE skeleton of 16-20 year old male with gigantism Skull damage consistent with pituitary tumor caused overproduction of human growth hormone Estimated height 202 cm compared to average 167 cm for Roman males at the time

Excavation near Rome uncovered a 3rd century CE male, aged 16-20, standing ~202 cm tall vs the 167 cm Roman average 🏛️ Skull damage suggests a pituitary tumor. His bones were still growing when he likely died from cardiovascular complications.

Key Facts

• 1991 excavation near Rome found 3rd century CE skeleton of 16-20 year old male with gigantism
• Skull damage consistent with pituitary tumor caused overproduction of human growth hormone
• Estimated height 202 cm compared to average 167 cm for Roman males at the time
• Disproportionately long limbs and evidence bones were still growing in early adulthood
• Early death likely due to cardiovascular disease and respiratory problems associated with gigantism

Source: Were Giants Real? Archaeologist Finally Answers by Inside Archaeology