Diagnosis and Treatment of Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) in Childhood and Adolescence

When a child's stature raises concern, pediatricians must determine whether there’s actually a problem and – if so – what's behind it. This presentation from pediatric endocrinologist Angel Nip, MBChB, provides useful definitions, explains workup components, breaks down the many possible causes of short stature, and clarifies when a child is considered to have growth failure. Nip also covers indications for use of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH); the evidence for associated risks, such as cancer and diabetes; racial and gender disparities in treatment; and when to refer patients to a specialist.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the findings suggestive of GHD and when to refer.

• Describe the indications for growth hormone therapy and its adverse effects.

• Describe racial and other disparities in the use of growth hormone therapy in children with short stature.