Growth disorders
Multiple causes, burdensome effect
Growth disorders and short stature are extremely stressful for those affected. Short stature is defined as a height below the so-called 10th percentile. It is important to check if there is a stagnation of growth.
Possible causes of growth disorders:
- Genetic defects, metabolic defects.
- Chronic diseases (including anemia, chronic renal dysfunction)
- Hormonal causes (including too much cortisone in the blood, hypothyroidism, deficiency of growth hormones, receptor defects)
- After chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- In case of nutritional diseases
It is also important to measure the bone age using x-rays. This can best be detected and measured on the left hand.
A genetically engineered human growth hormone is available as a therapy. When taken, it leads to normal body size. IGF-1 can now also be prescribed as a therapy.
