Cognitive effects of growth hormone following traumatic brain injury and other disorders

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability, with a significant percentage of patients experiencing pituitary dysfunction, including growth hormone (GH) deficiency. This manuscript examines the cognitive consequences of GH deficiency following TBI and other disorders and its implications for treatment. Despite advancements in understanding the cognitive impairments resulting from TBI-predominantly affecting memory, executive function, and processing speed-current interventions remain limited. Research indicates that GH deficiency, prevalent in 15-26% of TBI patients, correlates with substantial cognitive deficits. Notably, GH replacement therapy has demonstrated cognitive improvements in non-TBI populations, which raises the potential for similar benefits in TBI patients. Studies, including a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, report significant enhancements in cognitive functions such as verbal memory and processing speed following GH replacement. However, the underutilization of GH screening and treatment in TBI patients persists due to confounding factors and assumptions about the origin of cognitive impairment. This review emphasizes the need for increased awareness and further research into GH/IGF-1 assessment as a therapeutic target for cognitive recovery in TBI, particularly for the approximately 80% of patients with mild TBI who are often overlooked. Addressing these gaps could lead to improved patient outcomes and quality of life for those affected by TBI-related cognitive impairments.