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Published on: January 7, 2016
A National Survey on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Paediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency
C P Hawkes1,2, S M O'Connell3
1The National Childrens Research Centre, Crumlin, Dublin 12.
Insights
Irish pediatricians show varied practices in child measurement and growth hormone (GH) deficiency diagnosis. Recommendations include standardized measurement techniques and national GH treatment guidelines for better pediatric care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Clinical Practice Guidelines
- Growth Hormone Therapy
Background:
- International regulations aim to standardize pediatric growth hormone (GH) treatment and manage costs.
- Current practices in Ireland for child measurement and GH deficiency diagnosis require evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current practices in child measurement and GH deficiency diagnosis among Irish pediatricians.
- To identify variations in GH stimulation testing and formulation selection criteria.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was distributed to 139 pediatricians in Ireland.
- 35 pediatricians (9 endocrinologists) responded, detailing measurement techniques and diagnostic approaches.
Main Results:
- Only 37.1% of respondents use the recommended 2-person technique for measuring children under 2.
- Varied GH stimulation tests were employed, with 80% using sex steroid priming and a consistent cutoff of 7 ng/ml.
- Brand rotation (50%) and cost (30%) were primary factors in selecting GH formulations.
Conclusions:
- Departments should review child measurement techniques and equipment.
- Establishment of national guidelines for GH use and a prospective registry for treated children is advised.
Abstract:
Many countries have established regulations regarding growth hormone (GH) treatment in children, to standardise care and reduce cost. In this study, we describe current practice in Ireland surrounding child measurement and the approach to diagnosis of GH deficiency. A questionnaire was sent to 139 paediatricians in Ireland and 35 (9 paediatric endocrinologists) responded. Only 13 (37.1%) use the recommended 2-person technique for measuring children under 2. Amongst GH prescribers, there were a variety of GH Stimulation Tests used, sex steroid priming was used by 8 (80%) and the general cut off for a passed test was consistent (7ng/ml). Brand rotation (n=5, 50%) and cost (n=3, 30%) were the most common criteria for deciding the formulation of GH prescribed. We recommend that departments review their child measurement technique and equipment. We also advise the establishment of national guidelines for the use of GH, and a prospective registry for GH treated children.
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