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IGF-1
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Common Questions
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1. What signs and symptoms are seen with deficient GH and IGF-1?
2. What signs and symptoms are seen with excess GH and IGF-1 production?
3. How long do I have to be monitored?
1. What signs and symptoms are seen with deficient GH and IGF-1?
In children, the following may indicate GH and/or IGF-1 deficiency:Slowed growth rate in early childhood relative to group normsShorter stature than others of the same chronological ageDelayed pubertyx-rays showing delayed bone development.
In adults, abnormally low levels of GH and/or IGF-1 may cause subtle, nonspecific symptoms such as:Decreased bone densityFatigueAdverse lipid changesReduced exercise tolerance.
2. What signs and symptoms are seen with excess GH and IGF-1 production?
In a child, it is unusual tallness that is often first noticed. With an adult, it may be more subtle: a larger nose, thicker lips, a more prominent jaw, or rings and shoes that no longer fit. Other signs and symptoms may include:Deepened, husky voiceEnlarged organs - liver, heart, kidneys, and spleenEnlarged tongueErectile dysfunctionFatigueHeadaches and visual disturbancesJoint pain and swellingMenstrual cycle irregularitiesMuscle weaknessSnoringSweating and body odorThickening of the skin, skin tagsTrapped nerves (Carpal tunnel syndrome)
3. How long do I have to be monitored?
As long as you are considered to have abnormal (low or high) GH production or are receiving GH replacement therapy, your IGF-1 will need to be monitored.
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This article was last reviewed on
October 9, 2007.
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