Growth hormone treatment of idiopathic short stature: clinical studies.

The selection of short-statured children for growth hormone (GH) treatment has long been complicated by the requirement for provocative testing that is unphysiologic, difficult to administer, and potentially dangerous. The recent FDA approval of GH for the treatment of children with idiopathic short stature allows treatment decisions to be based more on the degree of short stature and the potential for attaining a normal adult height. Several studies conducted in children have shown that GH therapy can effectively and safely produce height outcomes within a normal adult range. The observed variability in height response associated with GH use in some of these studies has left the clinician with a difficult decision. Still, the availability of GH for this patient population provides a rational treatment option for patients who fail arbitrary and inaccurate assessments.