Growth hormone analysis and treatment in Ellis-van Creveld syndrome

Little is known on growth, growth hormone (GH) levels and GH treatment in patients with Ellis-van Creveld syndrome (EvC). The aim of the present study was to assess growth, growth hormone status and the possible effectiveness of GH treatment in literature and in a small series of EvC patients. A review of literature indicated retarded growth for most EvC patients (-2 to -4.5 SDS) and minimal data on GH levels or treatment which did not allow any conclusion. We studied eight EvC patients, seven of whom were treated with GH. Four were GH deficient (GHD) and four were GH sufficient. In all patients treated with GH, first year growth velocity increased. In three of the four GHD and in one GH-sufficient patient a gain in height SDS was noted. In the present small EvC series GHD occurred more often than expected. Patient acquisition through the Growth Hormone Database will have caused a significant bias, but the present results indicate that GH treatment may improve growth in at least some patients with EvC. Therefore we conclude that EvC patients may benefit from being tested for GHD and, if indicated, treated. In addition a prospective study to evaluate GH status and linear growth in patients with EvC as well as the potential effectiveness of GH treatment is warranted.