TREATMENT OF EXCESSIVE GROWTH IN THE ADOLESCENT FEMALE

Abstract

Excessively growing, adolescent girls (14) were treated with estrogen or the combination of estrogen and testosterone. After an average increment of 2 inches in height further growth was successfully arrested. In 11 of 14 patients, the average increment in height was only 1 inch. The length of treatment required varied considerably; in 11 of 14 cases it was only 9 months. Absence of growth for 3 months and radiological determination of epiphyseal closure were the criteria used for successful completion of treatment.