Association between the Level of Growth Related Hormones, Biochemical Profile and Short Stature among A Group of Young Males in Gaza

Abstract

The growth hormone-insulin like growth factor (GH-IGF) axis plays a crucial role in the regulation of growth. Initially, it was considered to be a mediator of growth hormone actions, IGF axis has been established as an independent endocrine system with wide array of actions. IGF-based investigations (IGF1 and IGF binding protein 3) are now replacing GH-based investigations for evaluation and monitoring of disorders of the GH-IGF axis. This study aimed to examine the utility of GH, IGF-1, and IGFBP-3 for diagnosing short stature. Cross sectional study was used to collect data from 85 subjects with short stature (case group), and 80 subject with normal stature (control group). Self report structure interview and blood samples were obtained from both groups. Stat fax in conjunction with a recently available ELISA kit were used for assessment of GH, IGF-1, and IGFBP-3 hormones in addition to chemistry profile (Ca+2, P, Mg+2, glucose and liver function tests) . SPSS version 15 was used as the tool for statistical analysis. The results of the present study showed significant relationship between GH, IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 and short stature (P-value= 0.000 for each hormone). Moreover there was high statistical significant correlation between alkaline phosphatase, phosphorus and stature (P-value = 0.001 for both ALP and P. To the best of our knowledge this is the first study in Gaza, investigating the role of GH, IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 in short stature, taking into consideration the socio-economic factors.