Cycle 2 – Module 3 – Lecture 1 : Growth hormone deficiency (2h02)

Information is given on the daily GH production and the crucial stimulation by GH of the production of IGF-1, which exerts many of GH’s effects. The daily production of GH declines quickly with aging, suggesting a high frequency of GH deficiency in adults over age 30-35.

The diagnosis of GH deficiency is based on:
+ questionnaires and an interview that examine the patient’s antecedents, psychological and physical complaints, the presence of adverse factors, events, and diseases that can be facilitated by GH deficiency.
+ Laboratory tests
+ Therapeutic trial.

Extensive and fascinating information is given on the physical signs of GH deficiency in adults: signs of premature aging, including tissue atrophy, skin and muscle sagging, fat accumulation at all levels of the body: scalp hair, face, trunk, abdomen, limbs, including hands and feet, joints, etc.

A short review of the scientific studies that show various diseases to be associated with low IGF-1 levels is discussed.

Special attention is provided on which laboratory tests to request: serum (particularly serum IGF-1 and IGFBP-3), 24-hour urine (GH), and how to interpret them with an overview of studies showing low serum IGF-1 levels within the reference range to be associated with various diseases and higher mortality.

This course includes 1 video, 1 PDF presentation, 1 PDF with references, and 1 quiz.

For more information or inquiries, please contact us at medschool@hertoghe.eu