The least helpful source in diagnosing a patient with gigantism would be the patient's diet. Gigantism is a condition characterized by excessive growth and height due to an overproduction of growth hormone during childhood or adolescence. When diagnosing gigantism, factors such as growth charts, medical books for reference on symptoms and diagnostic criteria, and the patient's family history for genetic predispositions play a crucial role in making an accurate diagnosis.
The patient's diet, although important for overall health, is not typically a direct factor in diagnosing gigantism. While a healthy diet is essential for general well-being, it does not directly influence the development of gigantism caused by hormonal abnormalities. Therefore, when considering sources for diagnosing gigantism, focusing on growth charts, medical literature, and family history would provide more relevant information compared to the patient's diet.