What is the Origin of Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency?

The clinical definition of this deficiency emerged following the identification of GH as the principal hormone regulating postnatal somatic growth. The term combines "pediatric" (relating to children) with "deficiency" (a state of insufficiency). The ability to treat PGHD was revolutionized by the advent of recombinant DNA technology, which allowed for the mass production of safe, synthetic human growth hormone.

What is the Mechanism of Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency?

The primary physiological defect lies in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, leading to a reduced secretion of GH. Since GH acts by stimulating the liver to produce Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1), the deficiency results in low circulating IGF-1 levels. This lack of appropriate growth-promoting signals at the epiphyseal growth plates of long bones prevents the normal proliferation and differentiation of chondrocytes, which is the direct cause of the observed growth failure.

Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency ∞ Area

Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency

Meaning

Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency (PGHD) is a clinical endocrine disorder characterized by the insufficient secretion of growth hormone (GH) from the anterior pituitary gland, which results in a significant reduction in linear growth velocity and short stature in children. This condition requires a thorough diagnostic evaluation, often involving dynamic stimulation testing, and is typically treated with long-term replacement therapy using recombinant human GH. Timely diagnosis and intervention are critical for achieving a normal adult height and mitigating associated metabolic comorbidities.