The critical parameters in GH excess

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview article

    6 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Effective biochemical control of GH and IGF-I levels in subjects with acromegaly can reduce mortality to that of the general population. Post-treatment mean GH values <2 or 2.5 microg/l are associated with mortality which is not different from the general population. Virtually all evidence from epidemiological studies has related GH and not IGF-I values to long-term mortality; controversy remains regarding relative importance of GH and IGF-I values in determining post-treatment control status. Current approaches to management of acromegaly (surgery, radiotherapy, SRIF analogues) rely on post-treatment monitoring of GH and IGF-I levels. Development of GH receptor antagonist therapy, which inhibits GH activity and normalizes circulating IGF-I, GH levels remaining elevated, requires re-analysis of relationship between GH and IGF-I. Studies have reported that normalization of IGF-I is associated with normalization of SMR, a significant association of IGF-I with survival, that IGF-I is not an independent predictor of mortality, and, in the largest study (419 patients), that there is no increase in mortality in patients with raised serum IGF-I levels. Post-operative subjects with acromegaly, with normal IGF-I levels but persistently abnormal nadir GH levels after glucose, have an increased risk of disease recurrence. Discordant values for GH and IGF-I estimations may be seen in up to 30% of patients following treatment, without knowledge of the impact on morbidity and mortality of this discordance. An optimal level of both GH and IGF-I appears to be required to maintain normal health, emphasizing the need for a clearer understanding of relationship between these two parameters.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)92-5
    Number of pages4
    JournalJournal of endocrinological investigation
    Volume28
    Issue number5 Suppl
    Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2005

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'The critical parameters in GH excess'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this