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Growth hormone deficiency: a hidden obstetrical trauma?
J Van den Broeck1, M Vanderschueren-Lodeweyckx, P Malvaux
1Department of Pediatrics, Universities of Leuven, Belgium.
European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology
|December 1, 1987
Summary
Mild birth trauma may cause growth hormone deficiency. Studies show non-cephalic fetal presentations and spontaneous vaginal breech deliveries were more common in children with growth hormone deficiency.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pediatric Endocrinology
Background:
- Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a condition affecting childhood development.
- The etiology of GHD, particularly in relation to birth events, requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between fetal presentation, mode of delivery, and labor onset in patients with documented growth hormone deficiency.
- To explore potential links between birth trauma and the development of GHD.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 177 patients with documented growth hormone deficiency.
- Comparison of fetal presentation and delivery mode with a control population.
Main Results:
- Non-cephalic fetal presentations were approximately ten times more frequent in patients with GHD compared to controls.
- Children with breech presentation were all delivered vaginally and spontaneously.
- 'True idiopathic' isolated GHD was often associated with induced labor.
Conclusions:
- Fetal presentation and delivery complications may be associated with the development of growth hormone deficiency.
- Even mild birth trauma, such as during spontaneous vaginal breech delivery or induced labor, could potentially lead to GHD.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms linking birth events to GHD.