GROWTH-HORMONE AS A NUTRITIONAL ADJUNCT IN CYSTIC-FIBROSIS - RESULTS OF A PILOT-STUDY

Growth hormone (GH) stimulates linear growth and improves nitrogen bal ance in many catabolic states, including sepsis, and in malnutrition a ssociated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In children with cystic fibrosis (CF), these anabolic effects could aid survival and e nhance suitability for transplantation. We assessed response to 0.49 I U/kg/week of recombinant human growth hormone (hGH) for 6-12 months in seven children with cystic fibrosis. All showed an initial increase i n height velocity (0.33-4.14 cm/year) and height standard deviation sc ore (P < 0.01). Knemometry also demonstrated a significant improvement in lower leg growth (P < 0.05). Weight velocity increased in five pat ients but there was no change in body mass index or skinfold thickness . The number of respiratory exacerbations decreased during therapy, al though there was no measurable improvement in respiratory function. Gr owth hormone may be a useful adjunct therapy in cystic fibrosis.