Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency
The role of human growth hormone
Growth hormone (GH) plays a central role in the growth process and maturation from childhood to adulthood. It also regulates
a number of metabolic and physiological processes throughout life. GH deficiency occurs when the pituitary gland in the brain
is unable to produce or release sufficient amounts of GH.
Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) can be grouped into 3 types:
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Congenital: caused by a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus during fetal development
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Acquired: caused by damage to the pituitary gland or hypothalamus from tumors, severe head injury or infections such as meningitis or encephalitis
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Idiopathic: unknown cause
Adult GHD
Growth deficiencies do not just affect children – they can be a significant problem for adults, too. Until recently, the effects
of GHD in adults were unknown. Adult GHD is now recognized as a specific clinical syndrome with numerous physiological consequences
including effects on:
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Body composition, including central obesity
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Lipids in the blood
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Muscle strength
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Bone composition
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Exercise capacity and energy
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Cardiovascular risk
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Psychological well-being
GHD in adults can result from a pituitary or peri-pituitary tumor or as a direct result of surgery or radiation used to manage
these conditions. Less commonly, GHD in adults arises from a deficiency acquired in childhood.
In adults, the signs of GHD are more subtle than in children. These may include both psychological symptoms such as depression,
anxiety, poor memory and social isolation; along with physiological problems including weakness, poor vitality, easy fatigue
and weight gain.
| Disclaimer |
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The information contained in these pages is intended for general reference only. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease without the advice of a qualified medical professional, and does not replace medical advice or a medical examination. Growth hormone and metabolic disorders is a serious ailment that should be diagnosed by a specialist in that field. Before starting any treatment a physician needs to be consulted. US Residents should consult the EMD Serono, Inc. for information on products approved for sale in the United States of America. |
