Longitudinal association between growth hormone therapy and obstructive sleep apnea in a child with Prader-Willi...

Descriptions of the development of symptoms of upper airway obstruction and sudden death of children with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) while on GH therapy have led to concern about GH contributing to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), especially early in treatment. However, two studies using monitoring with polysomnography (PSG) have not shown deterioration in OSA after 6 wk on GH, except as related to upper respiratory tract infections.

The aim was to describe the evolution of OSA in a girl with PWS on GH treatment in order to highlight important aspects of long-term clinical monitoring for patients with PWS on GH treatment. PATIENT AND RESEARCH DESIGN: GH was commenced when the patient was 2.9 yr of age. PSG was performed at baseline and 7 wk after commencing GH, plus at intervals throughout treatment based on symptoms of OSA.

GH was given at doses ranging from 4.2 to 4.7 mg/m(2) · wk over a period of 3 yr.

OSA was quantified by PSG.

OSA was not present at baseline or after 7 wk on GH but developed after 6 months, following a small increase in GH dose. Cessation of GH was accompanied by resolution of OSA. GH was restarted 2 yr later, again associated with the development of OSA that resolved after cessation of GH.

This case highlights that OSA may develop late in GH treatment. Children should be monitored for the symptoms of OSA throughout GH treatment, and PSG should be repeated if symptoms develop.