Lack of effects of recombinant human growth hormone in a child with a complex cardiovascular malformation and dilated cardiomyopathy

J Endocrinol Invest. 2000 Jan;23(1):28-30. doi: 10.1007/BF03343672.

Abstract

Recent studies have suggested the beneficial effects of GH treatment in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. We have treated with recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) a 6-year-old female with a complex congenital heart defect (severe tricuspid hypoplasia and malposition of the great arteries), who developed a progressive dilated cardiomyopathy of unknown etiology. rhGH treatment (0,1 U/kg/day, for 3 months) did not improve cardiac function, nor clinical symptoms, although we have no clear explanations for this. However, a trial with rhGH may be offered to children with dilated cardiomyopathy and waiting for heart transplantation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Age Determination by Skeleton
  • Cardiomyopathy, Dilated / physiopathology
  • Cardiomyopathy, Dilated / therapy*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Heart Defects, Congenital / physiopathology
  • Heart Defects, Congenital / therapy*
  • Heart Transplantation
  • Heart Ventricles / physiopathology
  • Human Growth Hormone / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Thyroid Function Tests
  • Transposition of Great Vessels / physiopathology
  • Transposition of Great Vessels / therapy
  • Tricuspid Valve / abnormalities
  • Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color

Substances

  • Human Growth Hormone