Pediatric growth hormone deficiency is a rare childhood condition where the pituitary gland produces an insufficient amount of growth hormone. When the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, which helps regulate the pituitary gland, is malformed or damaged, a growth hormone deficiency can occur. Growth hormone stimulates the growth of bones and other tissues. A low level of this hormone can cause slowed growth in children.
Pediatric growth hormone deficiency can be present at birth or develop later on in childhood. Causes of pediatric growth hormone deficiency can be congenital, acquired, or idiopathic.
Common Causes
The causes of pediatric growth hormone deficiency are typically classified as congenital (present at birth), acquired (develops during or after birth), or idiopathic (unknown cause). These causes lead to the damage to or a malformation of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus in the brain.
Source: Causes and Risk Factors of Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency
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