GH is responsible for cell reproduction and the growth of organs, muscles, bones, height

Also stimulates IGF-1 which is also important for promoting growth

Aetiology

• Congenital growth hormone deficiency - can be due to genetic mutations, empty sella syndrome (under-developed or damaged pituitary gland)
• Acquired GH deficiency - infection, trauma, surgery
• Can occur in isolation or alongside other hormone deficiencies: hypothyrodism, adrenal insufficiency, gonadotrophin deficiency (hypopituitarism)

Presentation

Growth hormone deficiency may present at birth or in neonates with:

• Micropenis (in males)
• Hypoglycaemia
• Severe jaundice

Older infants and children can present with:

• Poor growth, usually stopping or severely slowing from age 2-3
• Short stature
• Slow development of movement and strength
• Delayed puberty

Investigations