Childhood-onset growth hormone deficiency in young adults: lipids and cardiovascular status (literature review and own observations)

Abstract

The objectives of the study were to review current literature and to present own data concerning etiology, clinical features and management of patients with childhood-onset growth hormone (GH) deficiency that continues into adulthood. Special attention was paid to the effects of GH-replacement therapy on metabolic and cardiac  parameters. GH-replacement seems to reduce cardiovascular risks in young adults with childhood-onset GH-deficiency. Data from recent studies suggest that, due to  severe consequences of GH- deficiency, patients need GH-therapy to be resumed or continued in transition period from adolescence to adult life (after reassessment of  GH-status).