Growth Hormone Deficiency

• Growth Hormone Deficiency Overview
• Growth Hormone Deficiency Causes
• Growth Hormone Deficiency Symptoms
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Exams and Tests
• Growth Hormone Deficiency Treatment
• Self-Care at Home
• Medications
• Surgery
• Other Therapy
• Next Steps
• Follow-up
• Outlook
• Support Groups and Counseling
• For More Information
• Web Links
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors

Growth Hormone< Deficiency Overview

Growth hormone (GH) deficiency is a disorder that involves the pituitary gland (a small gland located at the base of the brain), which produces growth hormone and other hormones. When the pituitary gland does not produce enough growth hormone, growth will be slower than normal.

Growth hormone is needed for normal growth in children. In adults, growth hormone is needed to maintain the proper amounts of body fat, muscle, and bone. In adults, low or absent growth hormone can also cause emotional symptoms, such as tiredness and lack of motivation. Cholesterol may also be affected. Adults with growth hormone deficiency usually have a history of pituitary tumors that may have been treated with surgery or radiation.

GH deficiency can occur at any age.