Growth Hormone Treatment and Adverse Events.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pediatrics
• Oncology

Background:

• Growth hormone (GH) therapy is widely used for various pediatric conditions.
• Concerns have been raised regarding potential adverse events associated with GH treatment.
• Long-term safety data, particularly concerning malignancies and other comorbidities, require ongoing evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review major adverse events reported in patients treated with GH.
• To assess the association between GH therapy and leukemia onset.
• To document comorbidities in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome and Turner syndrome undergoing GH treatment.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of major adverse events from the Foundation for Growth Research Annual Reports (2000 onwards).
• Review of approximately 32,000 patients treated with GH (1975-1997) who developed leukemia.
• Literature review to evaluate GH therapy's association with leukemia in at-risk and at-risk-free populations.

Main Results:

• GH therapy was not associated with leukemia onset in patients lacking pre-existing risk factors.
• Diabetes mellitus, scoliosis, and respiratory issues were reported in Prader-Willi syndrome patients on GH.
• Osteoporosis, Hashimoto thyroiditis, and hyperlipemia were frequent complications in Turner syndrome patients receiving GH.

Conclusions:

• GH therapy appears safe concerning leukemia development in individuals without specific risk factors.
• Specific patient populations, such as those with Prader-Willi syndrome and Turner syndrome, may experience distinct adverse events during GH treatment.
• Continued monitoring for comorbidities in patients undergoing long-term GH therapy is crucial.