Growth Hormone (GH) Deficiency

A child who produces very little GH may be diagnosed as GH insufficient or if they produce none at all, they may be diagnosed as GH deficient. These two terms, often abbreviated to GHI or GHD, are often used interchangeably or sometimes the term GH inadequacy is used.

GH inadequacy may be present at birth, or it may begin at any time during infancy or childhood, with the most obvious sign being a slowing of growth. It is usually the result of the pituitary gland failing to produce adequate levels of growth hormone.

For many people, the cause of their growth hormone inadequacy remains unknown, however, several known causes include:

A tumour in the pituitary region in the brain
Treatment of a brain tumour or cancer
Severe injury to the head

Children who lack GH do not grow at the same rate as other children and are generally smaller than other children of the same age.

For further information talk to your doctor or healthcare professional.

Last updated: October 2011
SUEC/HGH016