Abstract

CONCEICAO, Flávia L. et al. GH deficiency in adults: results of the Brazilian multicenter study. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab [online]. 2003, vol.47, n.4, pp. 312-322. ISSN 0004-2730.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0004-27302003000400004.

We have evaluated 70 patients with GH deficiency, 39 females and 31 males, ranging in age from 18 to 69 years (mean: 38.3±13.5), from 3 centers in Brazil. GH replacement dose was different among the centers, as well as IGF-1 response to GH, which was more pronounced in patients using the highest GH dose. GH replacement led to a significant increase of IGF-1 and HDL cholesterol, as well as bone mineral density (BMD) and to a significant decrease in total and LDL cholesterol that was similar among the centers. Female patients showed a more significant increase of HDL cholesterol, while men showed a more significant increase of BMD. In conclusion, GH replacement led to an improvement of lipid profile and BMD. Lower GH dose may lead to the same benefits, probably with a lower incidence of side effects.

Keywords : Growth hormone; GH deficiency; IGF-1; Lipoproteins; Bone mineral density.