Growth hormone, growth factors and the gonad

During puberty, the growth spurt and stage of pubertal maturation are two processes intimately related both being dependent on the combined action of growth hormone (GH) and sex steroids. While it is well established that both GH and sex steroids are required for a pubertal growth spurt, the precise role played by GH on the timing of onset and rate of progression through different stages of pubertal maturation is not entirely clear. A better understanding of the involved physiologic mechanisms will help clinicians in the management of adolescents with growth and/or pubertal disorders.