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Growth hormone deficiency in Sri Lanka: a preliminary study
T de Mel1, N Warnasooriya, C Fonseka
1Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo.
The Ceylon Medical Journal
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Growth hormone deficiency, a cause of short stature, was identified in Sri Lankan children. This study confirms its presence and potential for treatment in the region.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Endocrinology
- Human Growth and Development
Background:
- Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a significant cause of severe short stature in children.
- Previous documentation of GHD is lacking in Sri Lanka, necessitating local epidemiological data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To screen a Sri Lankan pediatric population for short stature.
- To investigate the prevalence and aetiology of short stature, specifically identifying cases of GHD.
- To identify children who may benefit from growth hormone therapy.
Main Methods:
- Community screening of 16,001 children aged 5-6 years for short stature using growth charts.
- Diagnostic investigation of 172 identified short children for aetiology.
- Confirmation of GHD using the insulin-induced hypoglycaemia test.
- Identification of potential candidates for growth hormone therapy via an exercise screening test.
Main Results:
- Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) was confirmed in 12 out of 172 investigated children.
- An additional 27 children were identified as potentially benefiting from growth hormone therapy.
- This study represents the first documentation of GHD in Sri Lanka.
Conclusions:
- Growth hormone deficiency is present in the Sri Lankan pediatric population.
- Screening and diagnostic methods can effectively identify children with GHD.
- Findings support the need for further investigation and potential therapeutic interventions for GHD in Sri Lanka.