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Growth Hormone Treatment for Short Children Born Small for Gestational Age

Adriane de Andre Cardoso-Demartini1, Alexsandra C Malaquias2, Margaret Cristina da Silva Boguszewski3

  • 1Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil.

Pediatric Endocrinology Reviews : PER
|November 1, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Children born small for gestational age (SGA) face health risks. Growth hormone (GH) therapy can help short SGA children improve stature and body composition, though responses vary.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Endocrinology
  • Neonatology

Background:

  • Children born small for gestational age (SGA) are at increased risk for short stature and later health issues.
  • Most SGA children achieve spontaneous catch-up growth, but some remain short.
  • Potential long-term risks include neurocognitive issues, altered body composition, and cardiovascular disease.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the indications for growth hormone (GH) therapy in children born SGA.
  • To discuss the effects of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) on stature and body composition.
  • To explore the benefits of rhGH therapy beyond height increase in short SGA children.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on GH therapy in SGA children.
  • Analysis of clinical data regarding treatment outcomes.
  • Synthesis of current evidence on rhGH efficacy and safety.

Main Results:

  • rhGH therapy is indicated for SGA children with persistent short stature, typically initiated after 2-4 years of age.
  • Treatment response varies among individuals.
  • Benefits extend to improving body composition, not just linear growth.

Conclusions:

  • GH therapy is a viable option for improving outcomes in short SGA children.
  • The decision to treat should consider individual response and potential benefits beyond height.
  • Further research may refine optimal treatment strategies and long-term impact assessments.

Keywords:
Growth hormoneSGAShort statureSmall for gestational age

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