Growth hormone deficiency

Disease Overview

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is characterized by abnormally short height due to lack (or shortage) of growth hormone. It can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired. Most cases are identified in children. Although it is uncommon, growth hormone deficiency may also be diagnosed in adults.[4421] Too little growth hormone can cause short stature in children, and changes in muscle mass, cholesterol levels, and bone strength in adults.[4422] Most of the time, no single clear cause can be identified but several genetic causes of GHD have been described, such as mutations in the to POU1F1/Pit1 , PROP1 GHRH and GH1 genes.[11634] In adolescents, puberty may be delayed or absent. Treatment involves growth hormone injections.[4421]