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Transitioning of children with GH deficiency to adult dosing: changes in body composition

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Abstract

As more evidence gathers regarding the beneficial effect of growth hormone replacement therapy (GHRT) on body composition and other parameters in adults with childhood-onset growth hormone deficiency (GHD), questions emerge regarding whether or not GHRT should be discontinued following cessation of statural growth, and the effect of GHRT during the transition period on body composition and related parameters. This review discusses the effect of discontinuation of GHRT following attainment of adult stature, and the treatment and dose effect when GHRT is reinstated. We also review data regarding who should receive GHRT, the criteria for diagnosing persistent GHD, dosing of GHRT and the possibility of a GH ‘holiday’.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Pediatric Endocrine Unit, MassGeneral Hospital for Children and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA

    Vi Thuy Nguyen & Madhusmita Misra

  2. Pediatric Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Units, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA

    Madhusmita Misra

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  1. Vi Thuy Nguyen
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Correspondence to Madhusmita Misra.

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Nguyen, V.T., Misra, M. Transitioning of children with GH deficiency to adult dosing: changes in body composition. Pituitary 12, 125–135 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11102-008-0101-y

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