A PREDICTION MODEL FOR THE FIRST YEAR GROWTH RESPONSE TO GROWTH HORMONE IN TURNER SYNDROME (TS) BASED ON KIGS (Kabi Pharmacia International Growth Study) DATA

Abstract

In order to optimize treatment with GH, a large-scale, complex analysis on the response to GH in terms of auxological data, as well as treatment modalities is essential.1 We analyzed 175 TS patients <11 yrs. The median values were: CA=7.9 yrs; HT SDS = -2.5 SD; target HT=0.0 SD; Weight for Height index (WHI %)=97; GH dose (IU/kg/wk)=0.8; No. of GH inj/wk = 6). Out of 10 potential predictors, only the following were validated: No. of inj/wk, GH dose, CA and WHI. The corresponding regression equation is: HV (cm/yr)=9.02 + [0.36 × No. inj/wk] + [2.01 × GH dose (IU/kg/wk) ] - [0.25 × CA (yrs)] - (0.036 × WHI (%)]; r2=0.37; error SD=1.26 cm/yr). We concluded firstly that the mode of treatment rather than the auxology determines growth in TS, early treatment being possibly advantageous. Secondly, in contrast to GHD, WHI is negatively correlated to the growth response, thus pointing to a different body composition in TS. Thirdly, we found the growth response to GH in TS was less predictable with the variables used. Lastly, other predictors eg. degree of dysmorphology, may improve the prediction model.