Growth Hormone Deficiency in the Transitional Age

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Adolescent Medicine
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Transition period involves significant physical, psychological, and social changes.
• Patients with chronic conditions may struggle with self-management and adherence to care.
• Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) poses challenges due to diagnostic complexity, treatment burden, and potential long-term complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the specific features of GHD during the transition period.
• To highlight challenges in diagnosing GHD in adolescents and young adults.
• To discuss issues related to growth hormone (GH) replacement therapy and follow-up in this population.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on GHD during the transition phase.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria and limitations of current testing methods.
• Examination of GH replacement therapy protocols and follow-up strategies.

Main Results:

• GHD diagnosis is complicated by limited validated tests and lack of specific biomarkers in transition patients.
• Daily GH injections and comorbidities can lead to poor treatment adherence and high dropout rates.
• Untreated GHD increases risks for metabolic, cardiovascular, bone, and psychosocial issues, reducing quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Addressing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges is crucial for effective GHD management during transition.
• Optimized follow-up strategies are needed to improve adherence and long-term outcomes for GHD patients.
• Careful management of GHD during transition is essential to prevent serious long-term health complications.