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Leukemia and other malignancies among GH users
S Watanabe1, S Mizuno, L H Oshima
1Epidemiology Division, National Cancer Center, Tokyo 104, Japan.
Insights
Growth hormone (GH) therapy has been linked to leukemia development in 31 reported cases globally. Leukemia risk may be associated with early-life GH administration, with cases appearing during or after treatment.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Hematology
- Oncology
Background:
- Growth hormone (GH) is a vital hormone for growth and metabolism.
- Concerns exist regarding potential adverse effects of GH therapy, including secondary malignancies.
- Leukemia development in GH users necessitates careful monitoring and risk assessment.
Abstract:
The number of reported cases of leukemia developing in growth hormone (GH) users worldwide has reached 31. Twelve Japanese cases are briefly reviewed; five each of AML and ALL, and one each of CML and malignant histiocytosis. The underlying diseases of these patients consisted of 8 idiopathic disease, 3 tumors and one Fanconi's anemia. Leukemia occurred during GH treatment in 9 cases and after cessation of GH in 3. The longest interval from the cessation of GH therapy was 10 years. GH administration from a younger age tended to be linked to myeloid type. Risk factors and possible mechanisms of leukemogenesis by growth hormone are discussed, and proposals for the future have been made by the Foundation for Growth Science in Japan.