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Longitudinal data on growth and final height in diabetic children
M V Du Caju1, R P Rooman, L op de Beeck
1Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Antwerp, Belgium.
Pediatric Research
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) show normal prepubertal growth. However, diabetic girls experience reduced final height and obesity, indicating conventional therapy may not ensure optimal growth for all children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Endocrinology
- Growth and Development
Background:
- Conflicting data exist on growth in children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM).
- Previous studies primarily used cross-sectional designs, limiting insights into growth trajectories.
Purpose of the Study:
- To longitudinally assess growth patterns in children with IDDM.
- To evaluate the impact of diabetes onset before age 10 on final height and pubertal development.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 46 children (22 girls, 24 boys) with IDDM.
- Recorded height, weight, skeletal age, and pubertal development until final height attainment.
Main Results:
- Prepubertal growth was unaffected in both sexes.
- Diabetic boys experienced delayed puberty but achieved normal final height.
- Diabetic girls had a suboptimal pubertal growth spurt, leading to slightly reduced final height and a tendency towards obesity.
Conclusions:
- Conventional IDDM therapy may not guarantee optimal growth, particularly in girls.
- Longitudinal data reveal sex-specific differences in growth outcomes for children with IDDM.