Children with short stature have a growth hormone deficiency.

[-DarkJesús-]

 

One of the possible causes of slow development of children is growth hormone deficiency. This substance is secreted naturally by the pituitary gland and is responsible for stimulating bone formation, also contributing to the formation of organs and tissues. However, in the early years of life they are many hormonal or factors that may influence height.

In this context, the pediatric endocrinologist at Children's Specialty Hospital of Maracaibo, Joalice Villalobos, stressed the importance of regular medical checkup of infants, in order to detect any abnormalities at an early stage. He further indicated that suspicion of a growth disorder, the doctor takes into account the genetic heritage transmitted by parents, then consider feeding problems, chronic illness or hormonal dysfunctions.

"There are many diseases, endocrinólogas or not, such as Prader-Willi syndrome or Turner syndrome, which can cause short stature. But there are some benchmarks of what the size and weight of normal people, and one compares the patient with these limits for the po[CENSORED]tion, "said galena.

differential diagnoses

One of the differentiating factors at diagnosis of this condition with respect to others, is that there is a delay in bone age of the child. "Of the patients born small, about 10% do not fall within the normal growth curve, so these are completely susceptible to treatment with growth hormone; while for other diseases not apply this therapy, "said Villalobos.

hormone therapy

According to the endocrinologist, treatment with growth hormone is made after the diagnosis of a condition warranting their use, among them are: lack of growth hormone, Turner syndrome, and children born small for gestational age and they did not reach their normal size 4 years.

Galena said subcutaneous injections of a substance that is very similar to human growth hormone are administered. The therapy is daily and should be applied at night, right before bedtime, to increase the physiological secretion and make better use during the first hours of sleep.