Glucocorticoid therapy in children. Effect on somatomedin secretion.

Glucocorticoids cause growth retardation in children. We have studied the effect of these hormones on serum somatomedin (Sm) levels in seven children with nephrosis. Intravenous administration of methylprednisolone sodium succinate, 2.2 mg/kg, causes a rapid fall in serum Sm activity. The activity remains suppressed during continuous therapy, but returns toward normal when medication is omitted during the course of alternate-day therapy. We conclude that one reason for growth retardation secondary to continuous glucocorticoid therapy is suppression of Sm generation. A direct effect of these hormones on the cartilage cell or induction of an Sm inhibitor cannot be excluded by the reported experiments.