Growth Hormone Deficiency FAQs

Medical Author:

Stephen F. Kemp, MD, PhD

Stephen F. Kemp, MD, PhD

Stephen F. Kemp, M.D., is a U.S. board-certified Pediatric Endocrinologist. Dr. Kemp's educational background includes a BA with from the University of Oregon and an MD and PhD from the University of Chicago.

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Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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• What is growth hormone deficiency?
• What causes growth hormone deficiency?
• What are the symptoms of growth hormone deficiency?
• How is growth hormone deficiency diagnosed?
• How is growth hormone deficiency treated?
• What is a growth disorder?
• How do I know if my child has a growth disorder?
• For More Information
• Web Links
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors

Growth hormone deficiency is a disorder that involves the pituitary gland (a small gland located at the base of the brain). This gland produces growth hormone and other hormones (chemical messengers of the body). When it does not produce enough growth hormone, growth will be slower than normal. If other pituitary hormones are absent or present in inadequate amounts, the condition is called hypopituitarism.

Growth hormone deficiency can occur at any age. Growth hormone is necessary for normal growth and development 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.