DefinitionAbnormally short height in childhood due to the lack
of growth hormoneOften referred to as growth hormone
deficiencyPeople with pituitary dwarfism lack growth hormone that
is produced in the pituitary gland, located at the base of the
brain.
Etiology (causes)
Most of the time there is no cause However, since your pituitary
gland is located at the base of the brain, pituitary dwarfism can
be caused by severe brain injury
Signs and symptomsObvious sign is kids being much shorter then
kids of the same age and genderChildren with pituitary dwarfism
have a slow rate of growth. Usually less than two inches per year.
Children of this disorder still have normal intelligence and
capabilities
Diagnostic proceduresPediatric nurses chart childs growth rates
and those with the disorder will not follow the normal growth
curveThe growth curve of children with pituitary dwarfism shows no
growth or minimal growthX-rays to determine bone age can also help
with the diagnosis
TreatmentsGrowth hormone injections given at home several times
a week or dailyMost common side effects include fluid retention and
muscle and joint aches
PrognosisDepends on whether theres any permanent damage and the
age of the childEarlier treated, the better chance child will grow
to average adult heightGrowth improvement of the injections slowly
decrease
PreventionThere is no preventing pituitary dwarfism In some
cases it may be caused by traumatic injury to the pituitary
glandChildren with this disorder are smaller then others however,
are just as smart and can lead long healthy lives
Growth hormone deficiency. (n.d.). Google Health. Retrieved from
https://health.google.com/health/ref/Growth+hormone+deficiency
Pituitary Dwarfism. (n.d.). eCure Me. Retrieved from
http://www.ecureme.com/emyhealth/pediatrics/ pituitary_dwarfism.asp
Pituitary Dwarfism. (n.d.). encyclopedia.com. Retrieved from
http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/ 1G2-3447200445.html
