Causes And Types Of Dwarfism

Growth Hormone Deficiency

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is also known as pituitary dwarfism, and it happens when the body does not produce enough growth hormone. In some cases, pituitary dwarfism is associated with other hormonal deficiencies such as vasopressin, which controls water levels; gonadotropins, which control sex hormone production; and thyrotropins, which control thyroid hormone production.

Children who have GHD have an abnormally short stature but normal body proportions. The condition is also characterized by delayed or absent sexual development at puberty. Some individuals develop other symptoms of hormone deficiency such as excessive thirst, headaches, and facial abnormalities. Sometimes the cause of GHD is unknown, but it can be the result of genetic defects, a severe brain injury, or being born with no pituitary gland. For some patients, GHD is present at birth, though it can also be acquired later in life, such as the case with a brain injury.

Get to know one of the primary forms of dwarfism now.