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Early Metabolic Risk in Childhood Brain Cancer Survivors With Childhood-Onset Growth Hormone Deficiency
Alice Casiraghi1, Olivier Pollé2, Clément Bailly3
1Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
Summary
Childhood brain cancer survivors with growth hormone deficiency face high rates of dyslipidemia, impaired glucose metabolism, and reduced bone density in early adulthood. Suprasellar tumors indicate specific metabolic risks.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Pediatric Oncology
- Adult Endocrinology
Background:
- Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is common in childhood brain cancer (CBC) survivors.
- Early detection and management are crucial for long-term health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate metabolic and endocrine outcomes in adult survivors of childhood brain cancer (CBC) with childhood-onset GHD.
- To assess the impact of GH therapy and tumor location on long-term health.
Main Methods:
- Observational, multicentric study of 91 CBC survivors (≥18 years) with childhood-onset GHD.
- Assessed lipid profile, HbA1c, bone mineral density (BMD), body mass index (BMI), and pituitary hormone status.
- Subgroup analyses included tumor location (suprasellar vs. non-suprasellar) and GHD persistence.
Main Results:
- 78% of survivors remained GHD at transition to adulthood.
- High prevalence of dyslipidemia (59.4%), prediabetes (10%), and reduced BMD (68.6%).
- Suprasellar tumors were associated with higher BMI and HbA1c; suprasellar tumors indicate distinct metabolic vulnerability.
Conclusions:
- Childhood brain cancer survivors with GHD exhibit high rates of metabolic and bone health issues in early adulthood.
- Early intervention and ongoing monitoring are essential for managing these long-term complications.
- Suprasellar tumor location is a significant factor influencing metabolic outcomes.
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