Indications for growth hormone therapy in children

Arch Dis Child. 2012 Jan;97(1):63-8. doi: 10.1136/adc.2010.186205. Epub 2011 May 3.

Abstract

Growth hormone (GH) therapy has now been available for over 5 decades, with all GH now biosynthetically produced, and administered by daily injection. Paediatric GH is currently licensed in six different conditions: growth hormone deficiency (GHD), Turner syndrome (TS), small for gestational age (SGA), Prader-Willi-syndrome (PWS), chronic renal insufficiency (CRI), and short stature due to SHOX deficiency; all of these have been ratified by the most recent (2010) NICE review. Whilst the primary purpose of paediatric GH therapy in most indications is to improve short and long-term growth, in others (eg. PWS) it has a role in improvement of body composition. Recent UK national audits indicate approximately 4700 children receiving GH therapy, with approximately 760 new starts a year, with most prescription still via historical growth centres. There are currently 7 different manufacturers of GH, and while most UK units currently offer free patient choice for GH device, with preliminary evidence indicating that this may improve adherence with therapy, the 30% price difference may limit choice in the future.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Growth Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Growth Disorders / etiology
  • Homeodomain Proteins / genetics
  • Human Growth Hormone / administration & dosage
  • Human Growth Hormone / deficiency
  • Human Growth Hormone / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Off-Label Use
  • Prader-Willi Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Recombinant Proteins / administration & dosage
  • Recombinant Proteins / therapeutic use
  • Renal Insufficiency, Chronic / complications
  • Short Stature Homeobox Protein
  • Turner Syndrome / drug therapy

Substances

  • Homeodomain Proteins
  • Recombinant Proteins
  • SHOX protein, human
  • Short Stature Homeobox Protein
  • Human Growth Hormone