Growth Hormone Axis in Skeletal Dysplasias

Introduction: Skeletal dysplasias, also termed as osteochondrodysplasias, are a large heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by abnormalities of bone or cartilage growth or texture. They occur due to genetic mutations and their phenotype continues to evolve throughout life. Reduced growth is a common feature. Objective: To evaluate and discuss data about growth and growth hormone axis in patients with the main common skeletal dysplasias, such as achondroplasia, hypochondroplasia, 3M syndrome, and Leri-Weill syndrome. Design: Evaluate retrospectively the data on growth, final height (FH), height velocity (HV), growth hormone deficiency, and growth hormone response after growth hormone (GH) treatment in patients with these disorders. However, this chapter provides an updated picture of growth hormone axis and endocrinological features in skeletal dysplasia.