Growth Hormones
Growth hormones can be measured when there is abnormal growth in adults and children or when there is a history of a pituitary problem.
Growth hormones are released from the anterior pituitary gland. Pituitary adenomas can produce excess growth hormones. This can cause abnormal growth patterns called acromegaly in adults and gigantism in children. Excess growth hormones can increase blood pressure and blood sugar
Individuals with resistance to growth hormones or known pituitary disease may not produce enough growth hormones. In children this can cause short stature. In adults, insufficient growth hormones can lead to changes in muscle mass, cholesterol levels, and bone strength.
Learn more about growth hormones at the Brenner Children’s Hospital web site.
Growth Hormones