Question

Which of the following statements about growth hormone (GH) are correct?

• A. Deficiency of growth hormone in children causes dwarfism
• B. Excess growth hormone can affect both adults and children
• C. The production of growth hormone is stimulated by GHRH from the hypothalamus
• D. The deficiency of growth hormone affects only children, it has no effect on adults

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (C)

The production of growth hormone is stimulated by GHRH from the hypothalamus

Production of Growth hormone is stimulated by SRH (Somatotropin Releasing Hormone) or GHRH (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone) from the hypothalamus. It is responsible for stimulating the growth of the entire body. Deficiency of growth hormone has different effects depending on the age of the person. At a younger age, deficiency of this hormone results in dwarfism characterized by stunted growth, short stature, slight obesity, and delayed onset of puberty. Excess of growth hormone affects adults and children differently. In children it causes gigantism leading to excessive linear growth, causing the individual to be very tall, with abnormally large hands and feet and coarse facial features including a prominent forehead and jaw. An excess of growth hormone is seen in adults as well and is known as acromegaly. Sufferers of this disease show increased periosteal bone growth, a condition called organomegaly. They also show signs of glucose intolerance as the growth hormone is responsible for preventing glucose uptake into cells.