Safety of Growth Hormone Therapy in Patients with Idiopathic Short Stature: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Idiopathic short stature is a common condition in the pediatric population requiring growth hormone therapy. Thus, based on patient safety concepts, we sought to group the main literature data related to this aspect in different countries. Objectives:The aim of this systematic review was to identify what the literature says about the main safety aspects of growth hormone therapy in children with idiopathic short stature.Methods: This is a systematic review using PubMed, BVS portal, Cochrane, LILACS, and CAPES databases, with the descriptors idiopathic short stature, human growth hormone therapy, patient safety, children, and the boolean "AND" between them. Inclusion criteria were children with idiopathic short stature treated at some point during their lifetime with growth hormone and studies dating between 2015 and 2020. Results:The safety of growth hormone therapy in this patient profile remained consistent with data previously described in the literature. There was a difference in the incidence of adverse effects, indicating that there are various degrees of resistance to IGF-1 action in these individuals, and the response to GH may vary in this heterogeneous population. These children need higher doses of GH to get the same benefits compared to other etiologies of short stature. Conclusion:Adverse effects were mostly mild, with rare severe cases, thus, it can be concluded that the use of GH in children with idiopathic short stature has an efficient safety profile, although further long-term studies are required.