“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a medical condition in which the pituitary gland does not produce enough growth hormone (GH) for normal growth and development. GH is essential for normal growth and development in children, as well as for maintaining bone and muscle mass, and regulating metabolism and body composition in adults.
GHD can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life due to damage to the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, which regulates the pituitary gland's production of GH. Symptoms of GHD in children may include slower than normal growth, delayed puberty, and a chubby body build. In adults, symptoms may include decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, decreased bone density, and changes in cholesterol levels.
Diagnosis of GHD involves blood tests to measure GH levels and other hormones, as well as stimulation tests to evaluate the pituitary gland's response to certain medications. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans may also be used to assess the structure of the pituitary gland.
Treatment for GHD typically involves daily injections of synthetic GH, which can help improve growth and development in children and manage symptoms in adults. Other treatments may include medications to manage other hormone deficiencies that can occur with GHD, as well as lifestyle changes to promote overall health, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet.