Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency Research Articles

Changes in Quality of Life After Long-Term Biochemical Control of Acromegaly

Acromegaly results in impaired quality of life (QoL), which improves but does not normalize after biochemical control of growth hormone (GH) excess. There are few data regarding long-term QoL in patients with sustained biochemical control of acromegaly. We hypothesized that QoL would continue to improve over time but remain poor. We studied 2 cohorts with biochemically controlled (normal IGF-1 level) acromegaly. MED (n=42) underwent surgery but required somatostatin analog (n=30) or GH receptor antagonist monotherapy (n=12); n=16 had undergone radiation. SURG (n=24) were in remission after surgery ± radiation (n=10). GH stimulation testing was performed in all SURG; n=11 had GH deficiency (GHD). QoL was assessed at 2 timepoints by the 36-Item-Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) (MED, SURG), Acromegaly Quality of Life Questionnaire (AcroQoL) (MED), Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) (MED), Symptom Questionnaire (SQ) (SURG), and QoL-Assessment of GHD in Adults (AGHDA) (SURG). Time between timepoints 1 and 2 was 5.4 ± 1.0 vs 13.6 ± 1.2 years (MED vs SURG, p<0.001), and mean duration of biochemical control for MED vs SURG at timepoint 2 was 14.8 ± 6.6 vs 20.8 ± 8.2 years (p<0.001). At timepoint 2, mean (± SD) age (61 ± 12 years), mean BMI (30 ± 7 kg/m2), sex (68% female), and hypopituitarism (64% with ≥1 pituitary hormone deficiency) were similar between MED and SURG; mean IGF-1 index (IGF-1 level/mean normal range) was 1.00 ± 0.37 for MED vs 0.78 ± 0.40 for SURG (p=0.08); 79% of MED remained on medication. In MED, there was no change in SF-36 scores between timepoints, but all AcroQoL subscales and 2 GIQLI domains (Physical State, Emotions) improved, even after controlling for age, BMI, radiation treatment, and hypopituitarism. Results were similar in the 79% who remained on medication at timepoint 2. In SURG, QoL scores worsened on the SF-36 Pain domain and Physical Health Summary Score and SQ Depression and Somatic subscales (p≤0.01) but did not remain significant after controlling for age, BMI, radiation treatment, GHD, and adrenal insufficiency. After controlling for those variables, QoL by AGHDA worsened (p=0.02). At timepoint 2, % scoring in the lowest quartile (<25%) of normal for age on the SF-36 was similar between MED and SURG: 57% scored <25% of normal on ≥1 SF-36 domain and 29% scored <25% of normal on ≥4 of 8 domains. GHD in SURG was associated with poorer SF-36 scores at timepoint 2 (6 domains and Mental Health Summary Score; p<0.05). Radiation treatment did not predict poorer SF-36 scores. In conclusion, an average of 15 to 20 years after biochemical control of acromegaly by surgery ± radiation ± pharmacologic treatment, QoL remained low in many patients. QoL was poorer in patients with GHD than without but overall did not differ between those on and off pharmacologic therapy. Our data suggest that a history of acromegaly and development of GHD, but not medical treatment, are detrimental to QoL.

Design of the ForesiGHt Trial: A Multicenter, Randomized, Placebo- and Active-Controlled Trial to Compare Once-Weekly TransCon hGH (lonapegsomatropin) to Placebo and Daily Somatropin in Adults With Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD)

BackgroundAdult GHD results from insufficient growth hormone (GH) secretion from the anterior pituitary gland and may represent either a continuation of childhood-onset GHD or GHD acquired during adulthood. Clinically, adult GHD is associated with central adiposity, decreased lean muscle mass, increased fat mass, decreased bone mineral density, and reduced quality of life. Current standard of care consists of GH replacement via daily injections.Lonapegsomatropin is a long-acting prodrug of somatropin (hGH), designed to deliver unmodified hGH with a weekly exposure profile. Lonapegsomatropin consists of somatropin that is transiently bound to a carrier via a proprietary TransCon Linker. The carrier extends the duration of somatropin in the circulation through a shielding effect that minimizes renal excretion and receptor-mediated clearance of the prodrug. At physiologic conditions, lonapegsomatropin releases fully active, unmodified somatropin via autocleavage of the linker in a controlled manner.The safety and efficacy of lonapegsomatropin have previously been evaluated in two phase 3 trials and one long-term extension trial in pediatric GHD. Changes in body composition are an objective and sensitive endpoint that reflects biologic activity of GH and clinical efficacy of GH replacement. Methods: The primary objective of the foresiGHt trial is to evaluate the efficacy of once-weekly lonapegsomatropin compared to placebo at 38 weeks in adults with GHD. The trial will be conducted at approximately 120 sites in North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. Approximately 240 subjects will be randomized 1:1:1 to once-weekly lonapegsomatropin, once-weekly placebo, or daily somatropin (Norditropin®). Subjects will be treatment-naïve or without GH therapy for at least 12 months. Subjects with well-controlled non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (HbA1c ≤ 7.5%) will be eligible. Following screening, the 38-week treatment period will consist of a 12-week gradual dose titration period and 26 weeks of fixed dose maintenance. Fixed dosing will be used to ensure maximal comparability across the treatment arms in the trial. Three dosing groups per arm will be established to allow for differences in age and oral estrogen intake in women.The primary endpoint is change from baseline in trunk percent fat at week 38, as measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Secondary efficacy endpoints are change from baseline in trunk fat mass and change in total body lean mass at week 38. Exploratory efficacy endpoints include total body fat mass, trunk lean mass, visceral adipose tissue, and patient-reported outcomes. Conclusion: The ongoing global phase 3 foresiGHt trial is designed to assess the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of lonapegsomatropin by weekly administration, compared to weekly placebo and daily hGH replacement therapy in adults with GHD.

A Case With Adult GH Deficiency Complicated With Osteogenesis Imperfecta: Effect of GH Replacement on Bone Mineral Density

Background: Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is an inherited connective tissue disorder with many phenotypic presentations. Bisphosphonates are the mainstay of pharmacologic fracture prevention therapy, although they aren’t officially approved for the treatment of OI. Clinical Case: The patient was born by breech delivery. After he had multiple fractures at the age of two years, he was diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) type I by genetic analysis (c.1299 + 1G> A mutation in the COL1A1 gene). On the growth curve, his height fell below -2SD at the age of six years. When he was 12 years old, he visited another hospital because of short stature (Hight 119 cm: -2.7SD). Pituitary MRI revealed pituitary stalk disruption and pituitary atrophy. Endocrinological examinations (ITT, TRH, LHRH, arginine stimulation tests) showed severe GH deficiency. Growth hormone replacement therapy was started. At the age of 16 years, he was diagnosed to have central hypothyroidism and central diabetes insipidus, and levothyroxine and DDAVP were started. His bone mineral density of the lumbar spine was 0.546 g/cm2, and alendronate was started. At the age of 17, central hypogonadism was diagnosed by LHRH stimulation test, and HCG injections were initiated. His bone mineral density continued to increase by GH replacement, HCG injections and bisphosphonate and reached 0.820 g/cm2 (Z-score: -0.27) by the age of 18 years. GH replacement was discontinued (final height 180 cm). At that age, his bone mineral density declined to 0.717 g/cm2 at the age of 25 years, although he stayed on an alendronate and HCG injections. At that time, total testosterone 890 ng/dL (142<n<923 ng/dL) was within normal range, but IGF-1 level was below the lower limit (44 ng/mL; -4.6SD, 225<n<337 ng/mL). He was referred to our hospital for transition to adult endocrine care. Endocrinologic evaluation revealed low serum cortisol level in the early morning (2.26 µg/dL, 7.07<n<19.6 μg/dL). GH-releasing peptide-2 stimulation test revealed severe GH deficiency (peak GH 0.18 ng/mL, n> 15 ng/mL (1)) and replacements with GH and hydrocortisone were initiated. After the GH replacement, the bone mineral density started to increase to 0.954 g/cm2 (Z-score: -0.5). Conclusion: So far as we know, this is the first case report of OI with panhypopituitarism treated with GH and bisphosphonate. This case suggests that bisphosphonate alone is not sufficient to maintain bone mineral density complicated with both OI and severe GHD. GH replacement therapy was inevitable to increase bone mineral density in this patient. Reference: (1) Kazuo Chihara et al. A simple diagnostic test using GH-releasing peptide-2 in adult GH deficiency. Eur J Endocrinol.2007;157;19-27.

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Macimorelin Acetate (AEZS-130) in Paediatric Patients With Suspected Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD)

Abstract Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in children is a rare, aetiologically diverse condition that results in growth failure and short stature. Inadequate response to two different growth hormone stimulation tests (GHST) is required for the diagnosis of GHD. Macimorelin acetate, a potent, orally administered growth hormone (GH) secretagogue, is approved by the FDA and EMA for the diagnosis of adult GHD. Study AEZS-130-P01 is the first of two studies to investigate macimorelin acetate as a diagnostic test in children with suspected GHD. This was an open-label, group comparison, dose escalation trial to investigate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of single-dose 0.25, 0.5 and 1 mg/kg oral macimorelin acetate in paediatric subjects with suspected GHD. The macimorelin GHST was administered between two standard GHST, conducted as per local clinical practice, with a recovery period of 7-28 days between tests. Blood samples were collected pre-dose (±15 min) and 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120 and 360 minutes after macimorelin acetate intake. Overall, 24 paediatric subjects (8 per cohort [C1, C2, C3]) were included in the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) analysis. Five males and 3 females were observed in C1 and C2, 7 males and 1 female in C3. In all three cohorts, at least 3 subjects represented Tanner stages I or II. All 24 subjects (100%) were white, with a median age of 9.8, 9.0 and 10.5 years (range 4-15 years) and a median body-mass index of 16.1 kg/m2 (12.4-21.4 kg/m2) at screening. Overall, 88 adverse events were reported, many related to the standard GHST; none were considered related to the macimorelin test. Maximum plasma concentrations for macimorelin were mainly observed between 30-45 min. The mean Cmax values were 3.46, 8.13 and 12.87 ng/ml for C1, C2, and C3, respectively. The AUCs increased with dose; the mean AUC0-6 values were 6.69, 18.02 and 30.92 h*ng/mL. The mean elimination half-lives were 1.22, 1.61 and 1.71 h, respectively. PK and PD profiles for all three cohorts were comparable, with peak GH levels mainly observed within 30-60 min following macimorelin intake. Macimorelin acetate was safe and well tolerated in all dosing cohorts. A dose-dependent increase in macimorelin Cmax and AUC in children and adolescents correlated well with data from adult subjects. A robust dose-proportional GH response was also achieved. PD results showed that GH response was comparable in all dose groups, with a slight shift to earlier tmax at higher macimorelin doses.

Population Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Once-Daily Growth Hormone Norditropin® in Children and Adults.

Background and ObjectiveOnce-daily injectable recombinant human growth hormone (GH) formulations (e.g. Norditropin®; Novo Nordisk A/S) are used to treat GH deficiency in children and adults, with much of the therapeutic effect mediated via the insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) response. Despite a long history of use, there are few data on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (serum IGF-I response) of this therapy, or of potential differences in the relationship of GH pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) effects between children and adults. This study aimed to characterise the GH pharmacokinetics and IGF-I profile following daily subcutaneous GH in adults and children with GH deficiency.MethodsA model was developed based on a population PK/PD modelling meta-analysis of data from three phase I clinical trials (two using Norditropin® as a comparator with somapacitan, and one as a comparator with a pegylated GH product). Sequential model building was performed, first developing a model that could describe GH pharmacokinetics. A PD model of IGF-I data was then developed using PK and PD data, and where all PK parameters were kept fixed to those estimated in the PK model.ResultsThe model developed accurately describes and predicts GH pharmacokinetics and IGF-I response. Body weight was shown to have an important inversely correlated influence on GH exposure (and IGF-I standard deviation score), and this largely explained differences between adults and children.ConclusionsThe pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics developed here can inform expectations about the PD effects of different doses of GH in patients with GH deficiency of different body weights, regardless of their age.Clinical Trial RegistrationPooled modelling analysis of data from ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers NCT01973244, NCT00936403 and NCT01706783.Dates of registrationNCT01973244: 22 October, 2013; NCT00936403: 9 July, 2009; NCT01706783: 11 October, 2012.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40262-021-01011-3.

Can plasma antioxidants prevent DNA damage in oxidative stress condition induced by growth hormone deficiency? A pilot study.

Adult growth hormone deficiency (GHD), a condition characterized by increased oxidative stress, is related to augmented cardiovascular, metabolic and oncological risk. A case-control observational study has been performed to evaluate DNA oxidative damage analysing the production of thymidine-glycol in lymphocytes and its correlation with plasma antioxidant levels, evaluated as Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC). GHD was diagnosed using GHRH 50μg iv+arginine 0,5 g/Kg test, with peak GH response <9 μg/L when BMI was <30 kg/m2 or <4 μg/L when BMI was >30 kg/m2. Three groups were identified: total GHD (n = 16), partial GHD (n = 11), and controls (n = 12). Thymidine-glycol, TAC and IGF-1 have been determined respectively in lymphocytes, plasma and serum samples. When considering thymidine-glycol, we found a significant difference between total vs partial GHD and controls. Unexpectedly thymidine-glycol was lower in total GHD, also accompanied with a significant increase in plasmatic TAC. Our results showed that in adult GHD condition, the production of antioxidant species, in response to increased oxidative stress, could exert a protective effect on thymidine-glycol formation, and consequently on DNA intracellular damages. This pilot study could be inserted in the complex scenario of oxidative damage of GHD, a subtle, yet poorly defined condition, worthy of further insights.

Reducing adverse events associated with the glucagon stimulation test for the assessment of growth hormone deficiency in adults with a high prevalence of pituitary hormone deficiencies

A retrospective review of the adverse events (AEs) in 78 patients during the glucagon stimulation test (GST) for the assessment of growth hormone deficiency (GHD) before and after protocol amendments which aimed to reduce AEs in a group of patients with a high prevalence of pituitary hormone deficiencies. Based on our observations of frequent AEs during the standard GST protocol in an initial 25 patients (cohort 1), a modified protocol was introduced to include the routine administration of 20mg of hydrocortisone pre-GST in a subsequent 53 patients (cohort 2). Post hoc analysis of the effect of glucocorticoid dosing pre-GST on AEs was examined in those receiving <20mg hydrocortisone (group A, n=19) vs ≥20mg hydrocortisone (group B, n=59). AEs including hypotension, hypoglycaemia and nausea/vomiting. Of the 78 patients undergoing the GST, 79% had ≥2 hormone deficiencies. Rates of AEs were 41% vs 30% for hypotension, 60% vs 28% for hypoglycaemia (p<.05) and 20% vs 13% for nausea/vomiting in cohort 1 compared with cohort 2, respectively. Post hoc analysis revealed lower rates of AEs in those receiving ≥20mg hydrocortisone (group B) compared to those receiving <20mg due to a reduction in hypoglycaemic events (82% vs 26%, p<.001) and hypotension (50% vs 27%, p=.05). Similar numbers of patients in group A and group B met criteria for GHD. In patients with a high prevalence of pituitary deficiencies, a modified GST protocol of additional stress dose glucocorticoid attenuated the frequency of AEs without appearing to compromise the performance of the GST.

Pregnancy outcomes in women receiving growth hormone replacement therapy enrolled in the NordiNet\xae International Outcome Study (IOS) and the American Norditropin\xae Studies: Web-Enabled Research (ANSWER) Program

PurposeData on the safety of growth hormone (GH) replacement therapy during pregnancy are limited. We report a combined analysis of data from pregnant women treated with GH while enrolled in two non-interventional, multicenter studies: NordiNet® International Outcome Study (IOS) and the American Norditropin® Studies: Web-Enabled Research (ANSWER) Program.MethodsPregnancy data were pooled from NordiNet® IOS and the ANSWER Program. Data were collected during routine clinic visits by participating physicians using a web-based system. Patients exposed to GH replacement therapy during pregnancy were included in the analysis.ResultsThe study population included 40 female patients with typical causes of adult GH deficiency (GHD). Overall, there were 54 pregnancies. Of these, 47 were exposed to GH between conception and delivery. In 48.9% of pregnancies exposed to GH, the dose was > 0.6 mg/day. GH was continued past conception and then stopped during the first, second, and third trimester, in 27.7%, 17.0%, and 2.1% of pregnancies, respectively. In 29.8%, GH was continued throughout pregnancy, with an unchanged dose in most cases. Of the 47 GH-exposed pregnancies, 37 (78.7%) progressed to normal delivery. There were three adverse events reported in two pregnancies.ConclusionThese real-world data suggest that there were no new safety signals related to GH exposure in women with GHD during pregnancy. These results are consistent with findings from previous studies reporting data in pregnancies exposed to GH at conception or throughout pregnancy. This observational study in additional pregnancies provides further evidence that GH exposure does not adversely affect pregnancy outcome.Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00960128 (date of registration: August 13, 2009) and NCT01009905 (date of registration: November 5, 2009).

3D DXA Hip Differences in Patients with Acromegaly or Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency.

The skeleton is regulated by and responds to pituitary hormones, especially when the circulating levels are perturbed in disease. This study aims to analyse the between-group differences in 3D dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) parameters at the hip site among patients with acromegaly or adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD) and a healthy control group. The current cross-sectional study includes data for 67 adults, 20 with acromegaly, 14 with AGHD and 33 healthy controls. We obtained the areal bone mineral density (aBMD) outcomes using DXA and cortical and trabecular parameters using 3D-DXA software (3D-SHAPER). The mean-adjusted 3D-DXA parameters did not differ between acromegaly patients and the controls (p > 0.05); however, we found cortical bone impairment (−7.3% to −8.4%; effect size (ES) = 0.78) in AGHD patients (p < 0.05). Differences in the cortical bone parameters were more evident when comparing AGHD patients (−8.5% to −16.2%; ES = 1.22 to 1.24) with acromegaly patients (p < 0.05). In brief, the 3D mapping highlighted the trochanter as the site with greater cortical bone differences between acromegaly patients and the controls. Overall, AGHD patients displayed lower cortical parameters at the trochanter, femoral neck and intertrochanter compared to the controls and acromegaly patients. To sum up, 3D-DXA provided useful information about the characteristics of bone involvement in growth hormone (GH)-related disorders. Patients with AGHD showed distinct involvement of the cortical structure.

Titrating Growth Hormone Dose to High-Normal IGF-1 Levels Has Beneficial Effects on Body Fat Distribution and Microcirculatory Function Despite Causing Insulin Resistance.

To clarify the mechanism underlying the described U-shaped relation of both low and high levels of IGF-1 with cardiovascular disease this study explores the effect of decreasing and increasing growth hormone dose in GH deficient adults on (micro)vascular function, body composition and insulin resistance. In this randomized clinical trial, thirty-two subjects receiving GH therapy with an IGF-1 concentration between −1 and 1 SD score (SDS) for at least one year were randomized to receive either a decrease (IGF-1 target level of −2 to −1 SDS) or an increase of their daily GH dose (IGF-1 target level of 1 to 2 SDS) for a period of 24 weeks. Microvascular endothelium (in)dependent vasodilatation and vasomotion, vascular stiffness by pulse wave analysis, and HOMA-IR were measured. At the end of the study 30 subjects (65.6% men, mean age 46.6 (SD 9.9) years) were analyzed. There was a favorable effect of increasing the IGF-1 level on waist circumference compared to decreasing the IGF-1 level (p=0.05), but a detrimental effect on insulin resistance (p=0.03). Decreasing IGF-1 level significantly lowered the endothelial domain of vasomotion (p=0.03), whereas increasing IGF-1 level increased the contribution of the neurogenic domain (p=0.05). This change was related to the favorable change in waist circumference. In conclusion, increasing IGF-1 levels was beneficial for body composition but detrimental with respect to insulin resistance. The contribution of the neurogenic vasomotion domain increased in parallel, and could be explained by the favorable change in waist circumference.Clinical Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT01877512.

Adult growth hormone deficiency guidelines: more difficult than it seems to incorporate into clinical practice universally.

Adult growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a syndrome characterized by adverse phenotypic, metabolic, and quality-of-life features. Over the past 2 decades, there is accumulating evidence demonstrating improvement of most of these parameters when GH is optimally replaced. Appropriate selection of patients at risk of GHD is crucial when considering and performing testing to establish the diagnosis. While generally safe, GH replacement requires careful dose initiation and monitoring to assure effectiveness and tolerance in treated patients. Several consensus clinical practice guidelines recommend evaluation of adults presenting with hypothalamic-pituitary disorders for GHD. However, the clinical practice of managing such patients varies among countries largely due to lack of recognition of the condition, lack of GH availability, and lack of reimbursement of the drug, as demonstrated from a large online survey prepared by the European Society of Endocrinology involving 2148 patients from Europe and Australia. These data reinforce the notion of the large variability of disease recognition, clinical practice and education of adult GHD amongst healthcare professionals, and the lack of availability and reimbursement of the drug contributing to the under-utilization of GH replacement therapy in several countries. This commentary article highlights the fact that despite the publication of several guideline recommendations and positive long-term safety and efficacy data of GH replacement, there is still a need for increased education to enhance the awareness in the general population and improve the knowledge of healthcare professionals and administrators of adult GHD as a disease state to allow for early identification and treatment optimization.

Sexual Dysfunction: A Neglected and Overlooked Issue in Adult GH Deficiency: The Management of AGHD Study.

ContextAlthough sexuality influences well-being and quality of life (QoL), studies on sexual dysfunction (SD) in adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD) patients are lacking.ObjectiveTo investigate the prevalence of SD in AGHD patients grouped according to recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) therapy.DesignProspective, cross-over, 24 months, monocentric study.SettingReal-life clinical setting in a tertiary, endocrinological center.Patients83 AGHD patients (31 women, 52 men, mean age 56.3 ± 14.7 years) were enrolled according to stringent criteria.Intervention(s)Patients already on long-term r-hGH therapy (Group 1, n = 32) vs untreated (Group 2, n = 51).Main outcome measure(s)Serum hormones, QoL Satisfaction in Hypopituitarism (QLS-H) and QoL Assessment of GHD in Adults (QoL-AGHDA) questionnaires for QoL, Index for Erectile Function-15 (IIEF-15) in men, and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) in women for SD.ResultsThe overall prevalence of SD was 71.2% (60% men, 89% women). All IIEF-15 scores were lower (P = 0.001) and erectile dysfunction was more prevalent in Group 2 (75%) than Group 1 (35%). IGF-1 was correlated to scores of all IIEF-15 domains, particularly with that of erectile function (EF) (R2=0.123, P = 0.019). EF domain score correlated with QLS-H (P < 0.005) and QoL-AGHDA (P = 0.001). Despite the high prevalence of female SD also in untreated AGHD women, FSFI scores did not correlate with IGF-1 levels and QoL scores.ConclusionsSD is highly prevalent in AGHD patients, especially in those untreated. SD represents an overlooked and neglected issue in AGHD, regardless the contribution of sexual life on QoL. The evaluation of sexual function should be integrated in the global assessment of AGHD patients.

Diagnosis and Management of Growth Hormone Deficiency in Adults

Diagnosis and Management of Growth Hormone Deficiency in Adults

Chapter 10 - Neuroendocrine manifestations of Erdheim–Chester disease

Neuroendocrine manifestations are common in Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) patients. ECD is a rare non-Langerhans form of histiocytosis with multisystemic infiltration. The involvement of the hypothalamo-pituitary axis is common and central diabetes insipidus (CDI) is one of the most common endocrine manifestations in ECD patients. CDI is the first manifestation of ECD in 25%-48% of the cases. Suprasellar region extension, due to the infiltration of ECD lesions, can cause neurologic manifestations by mass effects, such as headache, visual disturbance, and cranial nerve palsies. Recent studies have revealed that disorders affecting anterior pituitary hormones are common in ECD patients. Secondary adrenal insufficiency, secondary hypothyroidism, (adult) growth hormone deficiency, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, hyperprolactinemia, and hypoprolactinemia can develop as the neuroendocrine manifestations of ECD. Since the symptoms of anterior pituitary hormone deficiencies tend to be nonspecific, the diagnosis of anterior pituitary hormone dysfunctions can be delayed. Some anterior pituitary dysfunctions such as adrenocorticotropic hormone and/or thyroid-stimulating hormone deficiencies can be life-threatening without adequate hormone supplementation therapies. An endocrinological evaluation of the function of the pituitary gland should be performed at the initial diagnosis of ECD. It is important to recognize that endocrine dysfunctions can develop later during the follow-up of ECD.

Measuring IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 profiles in women seeking assisted reproduction; relationship to serum growth hormone levels (Study 3)

Extending from our first two studies examining the IGF profile (IGF-1, IGFBP-3 and the ratio of IGFBP-3/ IGF-1) in women presenting for assisted reproductive technologies (ART), this study examines its relevance to the testing of human growth hormone (hGH) levels on the same blood sample. These were taken in the morning during the early follicular phase of the woman’s menstrual cycle and included 408 women who were ART-naïve, undertaking the tests as part of an assessment cycle prior to any ART treatment. The growth hormone levels were also tested on a further 945 women classified as ART-interval cases. It was shown that the vast majority of hGH levels (73%) were very low at &lt;1.0 ng/mL and 22% are extremely low &lt;0.1 ng/mL, close to the detection level of the chemiluminescent immunoassay (0.03 ng/mL). Only 12% of hGH levels were recorded in the range ≥3.0 ng/mL, levels which exclude adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD). Although IGF-1 levels are regarded as a screening test for AGHD, our studies showed no correlation between hGH levels and the entire range of IGF-1 levels, neither across IGFBP-3 levels, nor across IGF Ratios, albeit there was an apparent inverse trend for the latter. Across the entire age range, the hGH levels were not statistically different among neither the ART-naïve nor the ART-interval women. Furthermore, hGH levels were not different among the clinical parameters of stature or BMI; nor for ovarian reserve parameters AMH or AFC. It is concluded that serum hGH screening probably has very limited value as a screening test for potential AGHD.

The effectiveness of growth hormone replacement on energy expenditure and body composition in patients with adult growth hormone deficiency.

Numerous studies have shown that growth hormone (GH) replacement in adult GH deficiency (AGHD) improves the body composition and metabolic rate; however, data about the relationship between body composition and energy expenditure in these patients is scarce. Our study aimed to investigate the changes in resting energy expenditure (REE) and body composition after GH replacement in patients with AGHD. We enrolled 15 patients diagnosed with AGHD and evaluated the effect of GH replacement administered once daily for 12 months on REE, body composition measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis, and serological markers. GH replacement therapy significantly increased the serum insulin growth factor-1 levels after 4, 8, and 12 months. The REE and REE/basal energy expenditure (REE/BEE) ratio significantly increased from 1278.0 ± 490.0 kcal/day and 0.87 ± 0.23 at baseline to 1505.5 ± 449.2 kcal/day and 1.11 ± 0.21 at 4 months, 1,918.7 ± 631.2 kcal/day and 1.29 ± 0.27 at 8 months, and 1,511.1 ± 271.2 kcal/day, 1.14 ± 0.29 at 12 months (p < 0.005, p < 0.005; p < 0.01, p < 0.01; p < 0.01, p < 0.005, respectively). There was no change in the body weight, while the lean body mass increased significantly from 45.8 ± 9.5 kg at baseline to 46.9 ± 9.4 kg at 4 months and 47.5 ± 10.1 kg at 8 months (p < 0.005, p < 0.01, respectively). The fat mass also decreased at 12 months. Lipid metabolism improved after 4 and 8 months. GH replacement therapy in patients with AGHD significantly improved the REE and body composition.

Sensitivity and specificity of the macimorelin test for diagnosis of AGHD.

ObjectiveThe macimorelin test is approved for the diagnosis of adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD) based on its efficacy vs the insulin tolerance test (ITT). Macimorelin has a significant advantage over ITT in avoiding hypoglycemia. Analyses were conducted to determine whether macimorelin performance is affected by age, BMI, or sex, and evaluate its performance vs ITT over a range of GH cutpoints.DesignPost hoc analyses of data from a previous randomized phase 3 study included participants aged 18–66 years with BMI <37 kg/m2 and high (Group A), intermediate (Group B), or low (Group C) likelihood for AGHD based on pituitary history, and matched controls (Group D).MethodsProbability of AGHD was estimated using unadjusted, age-adjusted, BMI-adjusted, and sex-adjusted logistic models. Area under the curve (AUC) of the estimated receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (range, 0–1; 1 = perfect) was compared for adjusted vs unadjusted models. Separate analyses evaluated agreement, sensitivity, and specificity for macimorelin and ITT using cutpoints of 2.8, 4.0, 5.1, and 6.5 ng/mL.ResultsFor participants in Group A (n = 41) and Group D (n = 29), unadjusted, age-adjusted, BMI-adjusted, and sex-adjusted models had ROC AUCs (95% CIs) of 0.9924 (0.9807–1), 0.9924 (0.9807–1), 0.9916 (0.9786–1), and 0.9950 (0.9861–1), respectively.ConclusionsMacimorelin performance was not meaningfully affected by age, BMI, or sex, indicating robustness for AGHD diagnosis. Of the 4 GH cutpoints evaluated, the cutpoint of 5.1 ng/mL provided maximal specificity (96%) and high sensitivity (92%) and was in good overall agreement with the ITT at the same cutpoint (87%).

Adult growth hormone deficiency: Optimizing transition of care from pediatric to adult services

ObjectiveMost patients with childhood-onset growth hormone deficiency (CO-GHD) receive treatment with exogenous growth hormone (GH) to facilitate the attainment of their full potential adult height. Recent evidence suggests that continuing GH administration during the transition period between the end of linear growth and full adult maturity is necessary for proper body composition and bone and muscle health, and may also have beneficial effects on metabolic parameters, bone mineral density, and quality of life. The timing of this transition period coincides with the transfer of care from a pediatric to an adult endocrinologist, creating the potential for a care gap as a consequence of losing the patient to follow-up. DesignAn advisory board comprising both pediatric and adult endocrinologists was assembled to address current clinical unmet needs and to collaborate on a structured transitional plan for optimal management of patients with CO-GHD. Insights/conclusionThe advisors suggest collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches to ensure continuity of care; ongoing testing and monitoring of GHD status into adulthood; and a clearly structured protocol that includes practical guidance for clinicians to establish best practices for transitioning older adolescents with persistent CO-GHD to adult care.

Assessment of the performance of the Brazilian Portuguese Nottingham Health Profile in adult growth hormone deficiency and pulmonary hypertension.

Background: The Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) is a generic measure of perceived distress that has been used widely as an outcome measure in clinical practice and trials. The availability of two Brazilian datasets provided the opportunity to assess the psychometric performance of the NHP in different populations - adult growth hormone deficiency (GHD) and pulmonary hypertension (PH). The purpose of the study was to see how valuable the NHP could be in assessing outcomes in diseases where no disease-specific measures are available. Methods: Secondary analyses were performed with NHP data. Patients diagnosed with adult GHD or PH were administered the NHP during clinic visits on two occasions, two weeks apart. A disease-specific measure of quality of life (QoL) was also administered to the relevant sample of patients on each occasion. Results: The psychometric properties of the NHP were good for both disease groups. As expected, both samples reported high scores on energy level, the PH sample scored high on physical functioning and the GHD sample on emotional reactions. For both samples, most of the NHP sections were able to distinguish between groups of respondents with different ratings of perceived general health. While most sections of the NHP were relatively highly correlated with the QoL measures, pain and sleep did not seem to be important predictors of QoL in either of the samples. Conclusions: The use of the NHP in adult GHD and PH populations in Brazil is not recommended as there are high-quality disease-specific measures available for each disease. However, where no disease-specific measures are available, the NHP can provide good descriptive information of the impact of disease on different patient populations.

PDB83 Application of a Novel Algorithm to Identify Individuals with Possible Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency in the US: A Retrospective, Administrative Claims Database Study

PDB83 Application of a Novel Algorithm to Identify Individuals with Possible Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency in the US: A Retrospective, Administrative Claims Database Study