Gitelman syndrome combined with growth hormone deficiency: Three cases report

Gitelman syndrome (GS) is a rare autosomal recessive hereditary salt-losing tubulopathy caused by loss-of-function mutations in the SLC12A3 gene. It is usually characterized by hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, hypomagnesemia, and hypocalciuria. There are only a few reports on GS combined with growth hormone deficiency (GHD).

Three patients presented with weakness, spasm, and growth retardation, respectively.

GS was diagnosed based on the clinical symptoms, laboratory test results, and genetic analysis. GH stimulation tests were performed when the magnesium level returned to normal under magnesium oxide (MgO) therapy.

Initially, all patients received oral replacement of MgO and potassium chloride, and 2 of them received simultaneous spironolactone therapy. Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy was initiated after they were diagnosed with GHD.

All 3 patients exhibited satisfactory growth velocity and normal serum magnesium level, although the potassium level was still slightly lower than normal.

We suggest that all GS patients should undergo genetic evaluation, especially regarding SLC12A3 gene mutation. GHD should be considered if these patients have short stature. rhGH therapy is useful for stimulating the patients' growth, and it may increase the serum magnesium level.