It has been known for over 40 years that GH-deficient-children benefit from replacement with the hormone. But GH, essential for longitudinal growth, also plays a role after completion of final height. With the introduction of biosynthetic human GH 20 years ago, the use of GH was no longer restricted to severe growth retardation in hypopituitary children. This book will take the reader behind the myths of GH and into the real world of clinical endocrinology. The contributions stem from recognized clinicians and scientists who have been working in the field for decades. The contents encompass traditional end points of GH therapy such as body composition, bone biology and physical performance. Attention is also devoted to diagnostic aspects and side effects. Additional features range from clinical epidemiology to quality of life, and novel areas such as the impact of traumatic brain injury on pituitary function are also covered. The present volume of Frontiers of Hormone Research is essential reading for health care professionals interested in clinical endocrinology and GH.

Growth Hormone and the Heart endeavors to bring together knowledge that has been accumulated in the area of GH and the heart, from basic to clinical studies, by research groups working on this topic throughout the world. Lessons from different experimental models and from several human diseases (acromegaly, adult GH deficiency, heart failure) suggest to endocrinologists and cardiologists that GH may not only have a role in the physiology and pathophysiology of heart function, but that GH itself may have a place in the treatment of primary heart diseases (such as dilated cardiomyopathy) or of cardiac complications of hypopituitarism. Growth Hormone and the Heart will be a useful update of the research produced in the field of cardiovascular endocrinology. The Editors also hope that this book will serve as the primary step in the recognition of the wide physiological and clinical significance of GH and heart interactions.

Gigantism and Acromegaly brings together pituitary experts, taking readers from bench research, to genetic analysis, clinical analysis, and new therapeutic approaches. This book serves as a reference for growth hormone over-secretion and its diagnosis and treatment for endocrinologists, pediatricians, internists, and neurosurgeons, and for geneticists. Pharmaceutical companies may use it as a reference for drug development and research. Students, residents and fellows in medicine and endocrinology and genetics will also find it valuable as it provides a single up-to-date review of the molecular biology of gigantism and acromegaly as well as recommended approaches to evaluation and management. Acromegaly is a rare pituitary disorder that slowly changes its adult victim's appearance over time: larger hands and feet, bigger jaw, forehead, nose, and lips. Generally, a benign pituitary tumor is the cause and symptoms of acromegaly can vary from patient to patient, making a diagnosis difficult and prolonging suffering for years. Early detection is key in the management of acromegaly as the pathologic effects of increased growth hormone (GH) production are progressive and can be life-threatening as the result of associated cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and respiratory disorders and malignancies. - Accessible, up-to-date overview of the characteristics, state-of-the-art diagnostic procedures, and management of acromegaly and gigantism - Provides a unique compendium of endocrinology, genetics, clinical diagnosis and therapeutics - Contains contributions from internationally known experts who have treated patients with acromegaly and gigantism

This revised new edition reviews the substantial advances in our understanding of the vital role of growth hormone (GH) in maintaining adult health, and the resulting disorders from GH deficiency. The first edition, published in 1996, provided a pioneering overview of the subject; this new edition provides an even more comprehensive account, fully updated with the latest research, clinical applications, and references. The therapeutic benefits of GH treatment in GH deficiency are thoroughly evaluated, including effects on metabolism, cardiac function, exercise performance, psychosocial aspects, and aging and gender-specific effects. This compilation by the world's leading experts covers clinical investigation, diagnosis and treatment issues, and encompasses new knowledge of the control and action of GH secretion. This volume is the most authoritative, comprehensive, and detailed account available and will be an essential source of reference for all endocrinologists.

Includes research using the UCLA Library Baby Books Collection.

Examining growth hormone resistance, this text includes coverage of such topics as: growth hormone receptor signalling; metabolic actions of growth hormone - direct and indirect; and IGF bioactivity and its modification in growth hormone resistance in childhood.