Final height in Swedish children with idiopathic growth hormone deficiency enrolled in KIGS treated optimally with growth hormone

Abstract

To assess final height in children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) treated with human recombinant growth hormone (GH). Final height data for 401 Swedish children with idiopathic GHD and treated with GH, included in KIGS (Pfizer International Growth Database) between 1987 and spring 2006, were analysed retrospectively. Data were grouped according to sex, age and severity of GHD. Height at entry into KIGS, at the onset of puberty and near final height were analysed between groups. Groups were heterogeneous for GHD, which ranged from partial to severe. For all groups, mean final height corrected for mid-parental height was within the normal Swedish height range. In patients with severe GHD, mean final height was almost identical to mean normal Swedish height. About 16% of patients showed disproportionality (short legs) at final height and were significantly shorter than other patients. The parents of these children also demonstrated short stature. Children with idiopathic GHD receiving GH replacement therapy can achieve a final height that as a group is within the normal range and all achieve a height within their genetic potential.