A 12-year-old boy is at his GP for a routine preventive check-up. His

height seems unusual for his age, as he is 160 cm tall, which is significantly above average according to the growth charts. Examination of the growth (somatotropin)

hormone (HGH) level from the blood shows its elevated value. The boy is

therefore diagnosed with so-called gigantism caused by excessive secretion of

HGH from the pituitary gland. Which of the following conditions must be met for

excess HGH to manifest itself as gigantism, i.e. excessive growth of the entire

body? (illustrative figure – ossification)