Clinical significance of multiple hypothalamic-pituitary functions assessment in patients with Turner's syndrome.

Hypothalamic-pituitary functions in 26 cases of Turner syndrome were assessed with a combined stimulation test. The results showed that the peak GH levels of 12 cases were less than 10 micrograms/L; 3 patients were demonstrated as having an even TSH response, while another one with a delayed TSH peak, and other 4 had high basal values and consistent exaggerated TSH responses to TRH; all patients showed increased basal and peak LH and FSH levels but 5, whose LH and FSH secretion patterns were similar to normal. 12 cases have been treated with individualized protocols and followed up for 12 months or more, of them the growth velocity all increased, especially those with hypothyroidism or with a BA less than 13. It is suggested that multiple functions of hypothalamic-pituitary axis in Turner patients be evaluated as early as possible, in order that proper treatment could be adopted and their growth and development improved.