pineal hyperplasia syndrome, an abnormal condition caused by overgrowth of the pineal gland. It is characterized by severe insulin resistance, dry skin, thick nails, hirsutism, early dentition, and sexual precocity. Teeth develop prematurely and are malformed. External genitalia may reach adult size by 4 years of age. Ketoacidosis may occur despite high levels of endogenous insulin. Similar abnormalities are associated with some pineal tumors.