Effects of growth hormone therapy on facial anthropometric features in children with growth disorders: a cohort study

Despite the relatively widespread use of growth hormone (GH), information on its impact on craniofacial development remains limited. This study aims to assess changes in various facial anthropometric features in children receiving GH therapy for growth-related disorders and compare them with a control group.

The study included 32 participants (25 girls and 7 boys), aged 9-13 years, who were supposed to receive GH therapy for height disorders. A control group of 32 individuals, matched by gender, age, and ethnicity, was also selected. Facial anthropometric dimensions, including six measurements (ala-ala, zy-zy, sn-gn, n-gn, t-sn, and t-gn) and three ratios [(n-gn)/(zy-zy), (sn-gn)/(n-gn), and (t-sn)/(t-gn)], were assessed and compared at the beginning and after 6 months.

After 6 months, the GH group showed the greatest growth changes in zy-zy (3.89 ± 2.66 mm) and t-gn (3.64 ± 1.71 mm), whereas the control group exhibited the greatest changes in t-gn (1.51 ± 0.88 mm). Minimal changes were observed in ala-ala for both groups. Additionally, the GH group demonstrated a significantly greater (sn-gn)/(n-gn) ratio compared to the control group (P = 0.003). No significant differences were observed in other facial ratios (P = 0.252, P = 0.316).

Within the limitations of this study, the results indicated that short-term administration of GH for 6 months in healthy children with growth disorders significantly influenced facial anthropometric dimensions compared to the control group. Initial observations revealed an increase in facial width, along with the growth of the mandible. Further longer-term studies are recommended to confirm these preliminary trends.