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Human Growth Hormone Secretion Rates in Children

Human growth hormone (HGH) is produced by the pituitary gland, a master gland found at the base of the brain. HGH functions as the hormone for growth during childhood and lifetime maintenance of tissues and organs.

  1. HGH Secretion Rates

    • Secretion of HGH reaches its highest point during adolescent years. This is when we expect a child's body to grow rapidly. Failure to grow may be the result of a deficiency of HGH.

    Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD)

    • Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is caused by the absence or insufficient secretion of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. Most children with this deficiency grow less than two inches per year. The age of onset for growth hormone deficiency varies based on the degree of GHD. In children who secrete no growth hormone, the symptoms of GHD are noticeable before age three. Insufficient secretion of growth hormone usually becomes noticeable at ages over three years old.

    Signs and Symptoms of GHD

    • Symptoms of GHD in children include unusually short stature; looking younger than other children the same age; low growth speed for his age; extra fat located around the waist; and delayed tooth and puberty development.

    When to Visit a Pediatric Endocrinologist

    • If you feel your child's growth or height is below other children the same age, talk to your pediatrician and have the doctor compare your child's height on a growth chart. If your child has had regular check-ups with her doctor, the rate of growth can be established. If your doctor sees an unusual pattern or symptoms, you should consult a pediatric endocrinologist for further evaluation.

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