Growth Patterns and Endocrine Factors in Late Adolescence - Internal Medicine

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Understanding growth patterns during late adolescence can be quite complex, especially when considering the influence of endocrine factors. In your case, it is indeed unusual for someone who is 17 years old to continue experiencing significant height increases, particularly after the onset of menstruation, which typically indicates that the growth plates are beginning to close.

During puberty, the body undergoes a series of hormonal changes that significantly impact growth. The primary hormones involved are growth hormone (GH), sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Growth hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland and plays a crucial role in stimulating growth in bones and tissues. It is at its peak during childhood and adolescence, which is why growth spurts are common during these years.

Sex hormones, particularly estrogen in females and testosterone in males, also play a pivotal role in growth. They promote the maturation of growth plates, which are areas of cartilage located at the ends of long bones. These growth plates are responsible for bone lengthening. As puberty progresses, the levels of sex hormones increase, leading to the eventual closure of these growth plates. Once the growth plates close, further height increase is generally not possible.

In your situation, the fact that you are still growing at 17 years old suggests that your growth plates may not have fully closed yet. This can happen in some individuals due to genetic factors or variations in the timing of puberty. It is also possible that your body is producing higher levels of growth hormone or IGF-1, which could contribute to continued growth.
Additionally, while you mentioned that you are not particularly active, physical activity can influence growth hormone levels. Exercise, especially high-intensity activities, can stimulate the release of growth hormone. However, even without regular exercise, some individuals may still experience growth due to their unique hormonal profiles.

It is also important to consider the possibility of underlying medical conditions that could affect growth. Conditions such as growth hormone excess, which can be caused by a benign tumor on the pituitary gland, can lead to continued growth even after the typical growth period. This condition is known as acromegaly in adults, but in adolescents, it can manifest as continued height increase.

If you are concerned about your growth patterns, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an endocrinologist. They can perform tests to evaluate your hormone levels and assess whether your growth plates have closed. This typically involves imaging studies, such as X-rays of the hand and wrist, to determine bone age and growth plate status.

In summary, while it is uncommon for individuals to continue growing significantly after the age of 17, it is not impossible. Factors such as hormonal levels, genetic predisposition, and possibly underlying medical conditions can all play a role. Consulting with a healthcare provider will provide you with the most accurate information and guidance regarding your growth and any potential concerns.