Somatomedin activity and growth hormone secretion. I. Changes related to body weight in anorexia nervosa

Anorexia nervosa in childhood and adolescence, associated with impaired growth can be considered as a form of chronic malnutrition. Twelve patients aged 11 to 17 years were investigated. In spite of increased GH secretion, plasma somatomedin activities were diminished in 8 cases. Plasma T4, T3 and arginine stimulated insulin secretion were also decreased. In six patients who gained weight a significant negative correlation was found between weight deficit and plasma somatomedin activity. Prolonged administration of growth hormone in one case did not stimulate the generation of somatomedin activity. Nutrition and increased insulin secretion could plan a role in changes observed during recovery.