Growth Hormone Treatment for Height Concerns in Teens - Orthopedics

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Not growing taller?


My son is 16 years old, 165 cm tall, and is worried about not growing taller.
I heard that growth hormone injections can help.
Are there any other effects on the body from taking growth hormone?

Ms. Li, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/12

Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics


Dear Sir/Madam: Factors that influence height include not only growth hormone but also other factors such as the skeletal system.
While administering growth hormone is a feasible method for increasing height, we do not recommend it.
You may visit a pediatric orthopedic specialist for an assessment of whether the growth plates have not yet fused and to determine if there is a need for growth hormone therapy.

Reply Date: 2004/10/12

More Info


When considering growth hormone (GH) treatment for height concerns in teenagers, it's essential to understand both the potential benefits and risks associated with this therapy. Growth hormone therapy is primarily indicated for children and adolescents who have a documented deficiency in growth hormone or specific medical conditions that affect growth, such as Turner syndrome, chronic kidney disease, or Prader-Willi syndrome. In your case, your son is 16 years old and 165 cm tall, which raises concerns about his growth potential.


Effectiveness of Growth Hormone Treatment
Growth hormone therapy can be effective in increasing height in children and adolescents who have a deficiency or specific medical conditions. The treatment works by stimulating growth plates in the bones, promoting growth in height. However, the effectiveness of GH treatment diminishes as a child approaches the end of their growth period, which typically occurs after the growth plates fuse. For boys, this usually happens around ages 16 to 18, depending on individual development and genetics.

In your son's case, since he is already 16, it is crucial to assess his bone age through an X-ray. If his bone age is significantly advanced compared to his chronological age, it may indicate that he is nearing the end of his growth potential, which would limit the effectiveness of GH therapy.


Potential Side Effects
While growth hormone therapy can be beneficial, it is not without risks. Some potential side effects include:
1. Injection Site Reactions: Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site can occur.

2. Fluid Retention: Some patients may experience swelling due to fluid retention, which can lead to discomfort.

3. Joint and Muscle Pain: GH therapy can sometimes cause pain in the joints and muscles.

4. Insulin Resistance: Long-term use of growth hormone can lead to insulin resistance, which may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

5. Increased Risk of Certain Cancers: There is ongoing debate about the potential link between GH therapy and an increased risk of certain cancers, although definitive evidence is still lacking.


Considerations Before Starting Treatment
Before initiating growth hormone therapy, it is crucial to undergo a thorough evaluation by a pediatric endocrinologist. This evaluation typically includes:
- Medical History: A detailed medical history to rule out any underlying conditions that may affect growth.

- Physical Examination: A physical examination to assess growth patterns and overall health.

- Bone Age Assessment: An X-ray of the hand and wrist to determine bone age, which helps predict growth potential.

- Hormonal Testing: Blood tests to assess growth hormone levels and other relevant hormones.


Conclusion
In summary, while growth hormone therapy can be an effective treatment for certain conditions affecting growth, its use in otherwise healthy adolescents without a documented deficiency should be approached with caution. Given your son's age and height, it is essential to consult with a pediatric endocrinologist who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and discuss the potential benefits and risks of growth hormone therapy tailored to his specific situation. They will also help you understand whether he is a suitable candidate for treatment and what the expected outcomes might be.

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