[Growth hormone and carcinogenesis: the point on the question]

Over the past 20 years, the use of recombinant growth hormone (rhGH) has become more frequent and the indications for this therapy extended to more common conditions than primary pituitary dysfunction. GH, a very strong anabolic agent, alters body growth and composition, and metabolic pathways. RhGH therapy seems to be beneficial in certain types of pathologies and surgical procedures, by preventing the deleterious effects due to catabolism and by increasing immune function, healing process and muscular strength. Several types of tumors have been studied to investigate the rhGH-related oncological risks. This article aims at reviewing the clinical studies focused on the possible association between rhGH and cancer.