Can Growth Hormone Treatment Affect Height in Teenagers?

Growth hormone

Hello Dr.
Hsiao, I would like to ask about my niece who, at around 11 or 12 years old, received hormone suppression treatment for rapid growth for about a year.
Now she is 15 years old and 150 cm tall.
Do you think she still has a chance to grow taller? Thank you.

Lss, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/09/04

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

To determine if a person will continue to grow taller, an X-ray or scan can be performed to assess the status of the growth plates.
If the growth plates have fused (usually around the age of 18, though this can vary for some individuals), then further growth in height will not occur.

Reply Date: 2007/09/04

More Info

When it comes to growth hormone treatment and its effects on height in teenagers, there are several factors to consider. Your niece, currently 15 years old and 150 cm tall, has undergone treatment to suppress growth due to rapid development. This situation raises questions about her potential for further height increase.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that growth in height is primarily determined by the growth plates in the long bones, which are areas of developing cartilage tissue. These growth plates remain open during childhood and adolescence, allowing for height increase. However, once puberty progresses and certain hormonal changes occur, these growth plates begin to close. In boys, this typically happens around ages 16 to 18, while in girls, it can occur a bit earlier, around ages 14 to 16. Since your niece is currently 15, she may be nearing the end of her growth period, depending on her individual development and the status of her growth plates.

The treatment she received to suppress growth hormone was likely aimed at managing her rapid development, which can sometimes lead to complications such as early closure of growth plates. If her growth plates have already closed, then further height increase would be unlikely. However, if they are still open, there may still be a chance for her to grow taller, although the potential for significant height increase may be limited.

In terms of her current height of 150 cm, it's important to consider her family history and genetic potential. If her parents are of average height, it is reasonable to expect that she may not reach heights significantly above her current stature. However, if there are taller relatives, this could influence her growth potential.

Additionally, lifestyle factors play a crucial role in maximizing growth potential during the remaining years of development. Adequate nutrition, regular physical activity, and sufficient sleep are vital components that can support healthy growth. Encouraging her to maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and protein, engage in regular exercise, and establish a consistent sleep schedule can help optimize her growth potential.

If there are concerns about her growth or if you wish to explore further options, it would be advisable to consult with a pediatric endocrinologist. They can perform assessments, including evaluating her bone age through X-rays, to determine the status of her growth plates and provide personalized recommendations based on her unique situation.

In summary, while your niece may still have some potential for height increase, it largely depends on the status of her growth plates and her overall health and lifestyle. Consulting with a specialist will provide the most accurate assessment and guidance moving forward.

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