Disorders of the Growth Hormone

• Gigantism 


  Is hypersecretion of GH in children (before epiphyseal closure)
• Gigantism 


  This condition is characterized by exaggerated growth in height and weight.
• Acromegaly


  Is hypersecretion of GH in adults (after epiphyseal closure)
• Acromegaly


  The clinical manifestations are large hands and feet, thickening and protrusion of the jaw, organomegaly, deepening of voices, etc.
• Dwarfism 


  Is hyposecretion of GH
• Growth Hormone Disorders

  Nursing Priority: Body Image Disturbance

  Nursing Intervention: Allow verbalization
• Acromegaly and Gigantism

  Management:

  • Bromocriptine - inhibits GH (maintenance)
  • Sandostatine - regulates GH (after surgery)
• Dwarfism

  Management:

  • DOC: Somatotropin