How is pituitary dwarfism treated

Some cases of GHD can be treated with the use of synthetic growth hormone under the supervision of a pediatric endocrinologist. If other hormone deficiencies exist, other hormones can be given in addition to synthetic growth hormone. Health Home Conditions and Diseases. Symptoms Slow growth or absence of growth Short stature below the fifth percentile compared to other children of the same age and sex Absent or delayed sexual development during puberty Headaches Symptoms of other pituitary hormone deficiencies that may co-exist with growth hormone deficiency: Absent or delayed sexual development during puberty Increased urination and amount of urine Excessive thirst Facial abnormalities can be present in a small group of children with GHD, typically caused by pituitary defects.

Diagnosis A physical exam and measurement of height, weight, arms and leg lengths are the first steps to diagnosis, in addition to thorough medical history. Treatment Some cases of GHD can be treated with the use of synthetic growth hormone under the supervision of a pediatric endocrinologist.

Advanced Search. Search Menu. Article Navigation. Close mobile search navigation Article Navigation. Volume Article Contents Abstract. Oxford Academic. Google Scholar. Select Format Select format. Permissions Icon Permissions.

Abstract Evans and Long 1 first reported, in , the preparation of an anterior pituitary extract which produced gigantism in normal rats and growth in hypophysectomized rats. Issue Section:. You do not currently have access to this article. Download all slides. Sign in Don't already have an Oxford Academic account? You could not be signed in. Sign In Forgot password? Don't have an account? Pituitary dwarfism is treated with regular injections of synthetic human growth hormone before a child's growth plates have joined together.

It can be difficult to manage, however, and success rates vary. Children with pituitary dwarfism have normal intelligence and with early detection and treatment, many of them can also reach a normal height. Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

Search KidsHealth library.