User:Mr. Ibrahem/Growth hormone deficiency

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a medical condition due to not enough growth hormone (GH). Generally the most noticeable symptom is a short height. In newborns there may be low blood sugar or a small penis. In adults there may be decreased muscle mass, high cholesterol levels, or poor bone density.

GHD can be present at birth or develop later in life. Causes may include genetics, trauma, infections, tumors, or radiation therapy. Genes that may be involved include GH1, GHRHR, or BTK. In a third of cases no cause is apparent. The underlying mechanism generally involves problems with the pituitary gland. Some cases are associated with a lack of other pituitary hormones, in which case it is known as combined pituitary hormone deficiency. Diagnosis involves blood tests to measure growth hormone levels.

Treatment is by growth hormone replacement. The frequency of the condition is unclear. Most cases are initially noticed in children. The genetic forms are estimated to affect about 1 in 7,000 people. Most types occur equally in males and females though males are more often diagnosed.