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Growth hormone (GH), an essential hormone produced by the pituitary gland, plays a pivotal role in promoting growth, cellular reproduction, and regeneration within the body. In pediatric patients, a deficiency in growth hormone (GHD) can result in inhibited growth and developmental delays. When present in adults, GHD may lead to symptoms such as fatigue, reduced muscle mass, and broader health complications.
Growth hormone therapy constitutes a medical intervention designed to address GH deficiency across both children and adults. This treatment involves administering synthetic growth hormone—referred to as somatropin—to replenish deficient natural levels of the hormone. Indications for this therapy include conditions due to various aetiologies such as damage to the pituitary gland, genetic disorders, or the ageing process itself. The regimen typically requires daily self-administered injections of synthetic GH, which can be conveniently conducted at home under medical guidance. Manipal Hospitals is best for Growth Hormone Deficiency Treatment in Dhakuria.
Human growth hormone (HGH) serves two primary functions: stimulating growth, particularly in bones and cartilage during childhood and adolescence, and influencing metabolism by increasing the production of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). This hormone helps regulate how your body converts food into energy through various metabolic processes. While HGH promotes growth until the closure of growth plates in bones, it continues to maintain body structure throughout adulthood. Excessive levels of HGH can interfere with insulin function, potentially leading to elevated blood glucose levels.
Growth Hormone Deficiency can manifest differently in adults and children. Here are the signs and symptoms associated with GHD in both age groups:
Signs of growth hormone deficiency in children:
Delayed growth
Short stature
Delayed puberty
Delayed bone age
Reduced muscle mass
Increased fat mass
Slowed cognitive development
Signs of growth hormone deficiency in adults:
Decreased muscle mass
Increased fat mass
Reduced bone density
Fatigue and decreased energy
Impaired cognitive function
Changes in mood and emotional well-being
Decreased libido and sexual function
Growth hormone deficiency can occur due to various factors disrupting the production or secretion of growth hormone. Causes include congenital factors like genetic mutations affecting the pituitary gland or hypothalamus and acquired factors such as pituitary tumours, brain injury, radiation therapy, infections, or genetic syndromes. In some cases, the cause may be idiopathic or unknown.
The normal range for HGH levels varies based on gender:
For adults assigned male at birth: HGH levels range from 0.4 to 10 nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL)
For adults assigned female at birth: HGH levels range from 1 to 14 ng/mL
For children: HGH levels range from 10 to 50 ng/mL
Growth Hormone Therapy is primarily indicated for children and adolescents diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency or diagnosed with conditions such as Turner syndrome, Noonan syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and short stature due to homeobox gene mutations, among other medical disorders that impede normal growth and development.
Yes, some adults with growth hormone deficiency may benefit from treatment. It can help improve bone density, muscle mass, and energy levels. However, it is essential to discuss with your doctor whether growth hormone treatment is suitable for you.
Growth Hormone Treatment usually continues until a child reaches their full adult height or until an adult achieves their treatment goals.
Growth Hormone Treatment is administered via subcutaneous injections, usually into the thigh or abdomen. The frequency and dosage of injections depend on factors such as the individual's age, weight, and medical condition and are determined by a healthcare provider.
The side effects of Growth Hormone Treatment are generally mild to moderate and not very common. They may involve headaches, mild hypothyroidism, swelling in the hands and feet, muscle or joint pain, progression of spine curvature in individuals with scoliosis, and allergic reactions like swelling at the injection site, rash, or hives. While rare, serious side effects may include severe headaches with vision disturbances, pancreatitis, and hip dysplasia.
The following diagnostic procedures are used to ascertain whether a patient lacks growth hormone:
Test for growth hormone stimulation (also known as the arginine stimulation or insulin tolerance test)
Initial assessment of growth hormone concentrations
Levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)
Examining the pituitary gland with imaging techniques (MRI or CT scans)
Additional hormone testing (TSH, ACTH, LH, and FSH) to evaluate pituitary function
The frequency of endocrinologist visits during Growth Hormone Therapy varies based on factors like age, treatment response, and prescribed protocol. Initially, visits are more frequent for evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment initiation. During treatment initiation, visits may occur every 1 to 3 months to monitor response and adjust dosage. As growth stabilises, visits become less frequent, typically every 3 to 6 months. Adolescents may need more monitoring during puberty-related growth changes.
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