Growth hormone (GH) is naturally produced and secreted from our pituitary gland. GH is essential to stimulate normal growth, muscle and bone strength, and fat distribution. In some instances, growth hormone secretion gets compromised and may result in Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD). Although not common, GHD can occur at any age. Still, it is usually identified among infants and children, and children may grow shorter than their expected standard height.
The causes of growth hormone deficiency are varied. Most are congenital, but some may be acquired due to diseases of the pituitary gland like surgery, trauma or radiation. Congenital causes of GHD occur from birth due to genetic mutations.
The common symptoms are
• Slow growth
• Younger looking round face
• Absent or delayed pubertal changes
• Short stature
• Reduced bone strength
Usually, GH treatment is given for the following conditions.
• Growth Hormone deficiency ( acquired, congenital or idiopathic)
• Prader-Willi Syndrome
• Turner’s Syndrome
• Idiopathic short stature ( cause is unknown).
• Small for gestational-age children who do not have adequate catch-up growth
• Noonan’s syndrome
• SHOX gene haploinsufficiency
• Chronic Renal Insufficiency with poor growth.
Adults can also develop GHD, which can affect their structure and metabolism. These are due to trauma, pituitary surgeries or radiation.
Dr. Deepa G, MHSc (Diab), Dip (Diab)