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Comparative Analysis of Human Growth Hormone in Serum Using SPRi, Nano-SPRi and ELISA Assays
Published on: January 7, 2016
Prader-Willi syndrome: how does growth hormone affect body composition and physical function?
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin Children 's Hospital, Madison 53792, USA. alcarrel@facstaff.wisc.edu
Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism : JPEM
|February 12, 2002
Summary
Growth hormone (GH) deficiency is common in children with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), causing body composition issues. GH treatment improves growth, body fat, and physical abilities in these children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Genetics and Metabolic Disorders
- Growth Hormone Research
Background:
- Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is characterized by growth failure, reduced lean body mass, and increased adipose tissue.
- These body composition abnormalities in PWS patients resemble those in growth hormone deficiency (GHD).
- Evidence suggests true GHD in many children with PWS due to diminished GH response and low IGF-I levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of growth hormone (GH) treatment on body composition and metabolic parameters in children with PWS.
- To assess the contribution of GHD to the disabilities observed in pediatric PWS.
- To determine the clinical significance and benefits of GH therapy in this population.
Main Methods:
- Assessment of body composition (lean body mass, adipose tissue) in children with PWS.
- Measurement of growth parameters, including linear growth.
- Evaluation of metabolic effects, physical strength, and agility following GH treatment.
Main Results:
- GH treatment led to decreased body fat and increased lean body mass in children with PWS.
- Significant improvements were observed in linear growth, fat utilization, and energy expenditure.
- Enhancements in physical strength and agility were noted, particularly during the first year of therapy.
Conclusions:
- Growth hormone deficiency contributes significantly to the disabilities associated with Prader-Willi syndrome.
- GH therapy offers clinically significant benefits for children with PWS, improving body composition and metabolic function.
- While improvements are most pronounced initially, prolonged GH treatment remains beneficial for managing PWS-related challenges.
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