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Diagnosing
Pediatric GHD

Testing & Evaluation

Understanding
the Process

It’s important to note that the process of diagnosing pediatric growth hormone deficiency (GHD) may vary based on the specific circumstances of the child. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.

If there are concerns about your child’s growth, seeking medical attention early can help identify and address any underlying issues.

A diagnosis of GHD can typically involve several steps.

Below is a general guide:

1

Consult your Pediatrician

Start by scheduling an appointment. They will take a detailed medical history, conduct a physical examination, and assess your child’s growth patterns. If GHD is suspected, the pediatrician may refer you to a specialist who focuses on hormonal issues in children and can conduct more specialized tests.

2

Growth Charts

Your healthcare provider may use growth charts to track your child’s growth over time. If there’s a significant deviation from the normal growth curve, it could be an indicator of a growth hormone (GH) issue.

3

Blood Tests

A GH stimulation test, also known as a “Stim Test,” may be performed. Your child will be given a medicine that should make their body produce a burst of GH. Blood will then be drawn at times over the next 2-5 hours to check the GH levels to try to catch the peak. Low GH levels confirm the diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency. In addition to the Stim Test, other blood tests may be conducted to evaluate different factors that could affect growth.

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Imaging study photo
4

Imaging Studies

In some cases, imaging studies like MRI or CT scans may be recommended to examine the structure of the pituitary gland, which is responsible for producing GH.

5

Bone Age
Assessment

X-rays of your child’s hand and wrist may be taken to assess bone age, which can provide information about your child’s growth potential.

Hand x-ray photo Hand x-ray photo
6

Genetic Testing

In certain cases, genetic testing may be recommended to identify any underlying genetic causes of GHD.

Download this General Guide

Test Your Knowledge

This site aims to provide comprehensive information on the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of growth hormone deficiency (GHD). Take the quiz to test your knowledge.
QUESTION 1 of 8
What is the prevalence of GHD in children?
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What are some of the symptoms children with GHD may experience?
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Once growth hormone (GH) is in the blood, it increases production of what other hormone?
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GH is important for what?
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GH is produced in what gland?
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Diagnosis of GH in children may include what type of testing?
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Treatments for GH deficiency may involve taking?
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What do you call a doctor who specializes in growth-related disorders in children?
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