Human Growth Hormone Deficiency
What Is Human Growth Hormone Deficiency?
Human growth hormone deficiency is a medical disorder caused by not enough production of the growth hormone from the pituitary gland. It occurs in both children and adults and can lead to short stature, delayed puberty, and other symptoms.
Symptoms of Human Growth Hormone Deficiency
Human growth hormone deficiency can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Short stature
- Delayed puberty
- Low muscle mass
- Fatigue
- Reduced bone density
- High cholesterol levels
- Abnormal body fat distribution
- Poor concentration
- Depression and anxiety
- Decreased strength and endurance
- Reduced libido
Diagnosing Human Growth Hormone Deficiency
Human growth hormone deficiency should be diagnosed by an endocrinologist. The diagnosis process involves the following steps:
- Reviewing medical and family history
- Physical examination to measure height, weight, and body mass index
- Blood tests to measure levels of growth hormone and other hormones
- X-rays and other imaging tests to measure bone density
- Genetic testing to look for any genetic causes of growth hormone deficiency
Treatment for Human Growth Hormone Deficiency
Treatment for human growth hormone deficiency typically involves using synthetic growth hormone (somatropin). This is administered through injections, typically once or twice a day. Treatment for adults usually lasts for a lifetime.
The goal of treatment is to restore normal growth and development, improve energy levels and general well-being, and reach or maintain a healthy weight. Treatment is most successful when started earlier in life, but can still have positive effects even in adults.