Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/2440/74447
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Type: Journal article
Title: Debate: idiopathic short stature should be treated with growth hormone
Author: Ambler, G.
Fairchild, J.
Wilkinson, D.
Citation: Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health, 2013; 49(3):165-169
Publisher: Blackwell Publishing Asia
Issue Date: 2013
ISSN: 1034-4810
1440-1754
Statement of
Responsibility: 
Geoffrey R. Ambler, Jan Fairchild and Dominic J.C. Wilkinson
Abstract: In this paper we outline the case for and against the treatment of idiopathic short stature with growth hormone. Drs Ambler and Fairchild argue that many of those with ‘idiopathic’ short stature are not ‘short, normal children’ and will ultimately receive molecular diagnoses. They also argue that there is a subset of children who suffer negative psychosocial consequences of their stature for whom growth hormone therapy is effective. Growth hormone has a very good safety record and is likely to be as cost-effective in idiopathic short-stature as in some other conditions that are currently funded. Dr Wilkinson counters that short stature is not associated with physical or psychological illness, and that there is no evidence that growth hormone improves psychological or physical wellbeing. Moreover, growth hormone for idiopathic short stature represents a form of enhancement rather than treatment, and is not a fair use of resources. Socially mediated disadvantage should be treated by attention to prejudice and not by hormone treatment.
Keywords: Body height
child
clinical ethics
human growth hormone/therapeutic use
short stature
Rights: © 2012 The Authors. Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health © 2012 Paediatrics and Child Health Division (Royal Australasian College of Physicians)
DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1754.2012.02465.x
Published version: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1440-1754.2012.02465.x
Appears in Collections:Aurora harvest 4
Paediatrics publications

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