Abstract
Oxandrolone treatment (Ox) induces an acceleration of growth velocity in Turner's syndrome. However, the effect of such therapy on final adult height remains controversial. 56 pts (age at start of therapy: 6-17 years, karyotype 45 X0: n = 32, mosaicism or structural abnormalities: n = 24) were treated with 0.1 mg Ox/ kg/day for 2 to 6 years. Growth velocity and final height were compared with those of an untreated control group (Ranke et al.: Eur. J. Ped. 141, 81, 1983). Growth velocity was significantly higher in treated than in untreated patients (p < 0.01) and decreased with duration of Rx. Bone age did not accelerate during treatment. After 2-6 years of therapy 27 pts were older than 19 years. Height was significantly higher than in controls (150.8 ± 5.6 vs. 146 ± 5.8, p < 0.05). There was no difference between pts with karyotype 45 XO and mosaicism or structurally abnormal X-chromosomes. Pts started with Ox - Rx at age 13-15 years (n = 15) seemed to be taller than pts (n = 10) 16-18 years old at start of Rx (151.6 ± 6.4 vs.149,8± 4.8 cm). However, the difference was not statistically significant. Our results indicate that Ox therapy causes a moderate, but significant gain in final height in Turner's syndrome.
Log in or create a free account to read this content
Gain free access to this article, as well as selected content from this journal and more on nature.com
or
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Heidemann, P., Wiesenmüller, U. & Stubbe, P. OXANDROLONE TREATMENT INCREASES FINAL ADULT HEIGHT IN TURNER'S SYNDROME. Pediatr Res 23, 126 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198801000-00152
Issue date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198801000-00152
