Abstract
Head circumference was measured before and during hGH therapy in 14 children with IGHD (mean CA 6:10 and mean BA 1:6 yrs) and in 21 children with MPHD (mean CA 12:5 and mean BA 7:4 yrs). In both groups there was a retardation in the growth of the neurocranium, with a mean SD - 2.7 in IGHD and of -1.3 in MPHD. In IGHD, initiation of hGH therapy before the age 5 and BA of 3 led to a catch-up in cranial growth with normalization of the head size (m SD: -1.4). In older children the induction of head growth was similar to that achieved by the long bones but without catch-up. In 3 adults with hereditary IGHD without therapy, the head circumference was below normal (-2.3, -3.2 and -4.4 SD). In view of the possible influence of GH on the development of the brain and of the role played by the brain upon the growth of the cranium, the importance of early diagnosis and initiation of therapy in infants and young children with a deficiency of GH is stressed.
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
Laron, Z., Roitman, A. Effect of hGH therapy on the head circumference in hypopituitary children. Pediatr Res 12, 1095 (1978). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197811000-00083
Issue date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197811000-00083
