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Sutton's nevus and growth hormone therapy
E Bozzola1, R Giacchero, S Barberi
1Departmernt of Pediatrics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy. elanabozzola@libero.it
Minerva Pediatrica
|July 15, 2004
Summary
Growth hormone (GH) therapy did not accelerate the growth of Sutton's nevus in children with GH deficiency. This study suggests GH treatment has no significant impact on the size or evolution of these pigmented lesions.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Dermatology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Growth hormone (GH) therapy is sometimes linked to increased melanocytic nevi growth and melanoma risk.
- The effect of GH on Sutton's nevus, a haloed melanocytic lesion, in GH-deficient patients is debated.
Observation:
- Three children with GH deficiency and Sutton's nevus were evaluated.
- One case showed potential nevus induction by GH therapy, but no subsequent growth.
- Another case had a pre-existing nevus before GH treatment, and a third developed nevi during GH therapy and puberty without significant changes.
Findings:
- GH therapy did not demonstrably accelerate the growth or alter the long-term evolution of Sutton's nevus.
- No clear influence of GH therapy or sexual steroids on Sutton's nevi was observed in the studied cases.
Implications:
- GH therapy may not increase the risk of accelerated growth for Sutton's nevus.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between hormonal therapies and melanocytic lesions.