Hormonal Disorders

Pediatric hormonal disorders occur when there is an imbalance or dysfunction in the endocrine system, affecting the production or regulation of hormones crucial for growth, metabolism, and development. These disorders can significantly impact a child's physical, cognitive, and emotional health, with common conditions including growth hormone deficiency, thyroid disorders, adrenal insufficiency, and puberty-related issues.

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) results in slower growth and short stature due to inadequate growth hormone production. Children with GHD often show delayed bone age and reduced height. Treatment involves daily growth hormone injections to stimulate normal growth.

Thyroid disorders are common, with hypothyroidism being the most frequent. Hypothyroidism, due to insufficient thyroid hormone production, causes fatigue, weight gain, and delayed growth, while hyperthyroidism results in excessive thyroid hormone, leading to weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and irritability. Treatment for hypothyroidism typically involves thyroid hormone replacement, while hyperthyroidism may require medications to reduce hormone levels.

Adrenal disorders like congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) affect cortisol production. CAH can cause early puberty, ambiguous genitalia, and, in severe cases, life-threatening salt-wasting. Treatment includes hormone replacement and, occasionally, surgery.

Puberty-related issues include precocious puberty, where puberty begins unusually early, and delayed puberty, which is often due to constitutional delay or underlying conditions. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, with medications available to manage hormone levels when necessary.