A condition called growth hormone deficiency (GHD) occurs when the pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of the brain, fails to produce enough growth hormone (GH). In children, growth hormone is essential for normal growth and development, and for adults, it maintains the body's structure and metabolism. Although GHD can affect anyone, it is more common in children than in adults.
There are different types of GHD, depending on when and how it develops:
A congenital GHD occurs when a genetic mutation or structural problem in the brain is present from birth, as in the case of Prader-Willi syndrome and Turner syndrome.
As a result of damage to the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus, which controls the pituitary gland, acquired GHD occurs later in life. Brain injuries, infections, radiation, surgery, tumors, or autoimmune diseases can all contribute to the development of acquired GHD.
Idiopathic GHD: This type of GHD has no known cause and is diagnosed when other causes are ruled out.
The symptoms of GHD vary depending on the age of onset and the severity of the condition. Some of the common symptoms include:
In children: Slow growth rate, short stature, delayed puberty, poor bone density, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, low blood sugar, and learning difficulties.
In adults: Reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, low bone density, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, impaired cardiac function, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and poor quality of life.
An individual's medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and stimulation tests are used to diagnose GHD. GH and other hormones are measured in blood tests, including insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which indicates how active GH is in the body. An arginine or clonidine stimulation test involves administering a substance that triggers pituitary hormone release and measuring the response to the substance. Low or absent responses indicate GHD.
GHD is treated by injecting synthetic GH to replace the missing GH. GH injections are usually administered daily until a patient reaches the desired height or reaches the maximum growth potential. The dosage and frequency depend on the age, weight, and response of the patient. As long as the levels of GH return to normal in adults, GH therapy can be continued for life.
GH therapy has many benefits, such as:
In children: Increased growth rate, improved height, enhanced bone density, increased muscle mass, decreased body fat, improved blood sugar, and better cognitive function.
In adults: Increased muscle mass, decreased body fat, improved bone density, reduced cholesterol, lowered blood pressure, improved cardiac function, increased energy, reduced depression, reduced anxiety, and improved quality of life.
There is no specific way to prevent GHD, as it is often caused by factors that are beyond one's control. However, some general measures that may help reduce the risk or severity of GHD include:
Seeking prompt medical attention for any head injury, infection, or tumor that may affect the brain or the pituitary gland.
Avoiding exposure to radiation or chemicals that may damage the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus.
Following a healthy diet and lifestyle that supports normal growth and development.
Consulting a doctor regularly for monitoring and adjusting the GH therapy, if needed.
Taking supplements of calcium and vitamin D to support bone health, if advised by a doctor.
