ESPE Abstracts

Background: Gigantism is a condition characterized by excessive growth and height significantly above average; it is usually caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland. In some cases the condition can be passed on genetically through a mutated gene.Objective and hypotheses: Describe clinical, hormonal, and morphological profile of seven children with gigantism. Mean age=14 years (9–16), age of onset of symptoms 12 years. Tall stature (50%), and brain ...

Background: Hearing problems and ear malfunctions are frequent in Turner syndrome (TS) and correlate with the karyotype. As a result of the frequent otitis media, conductive hearing loss is common in girls with TS. Sensorineural hearing loss is also common and may occur as early as 6 years of age.Objective and hypotheses: This study reviewed a cohort of children to clarify the incidence and pattern of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss in girls wi...

Introduction: Radiation induced growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is one of several important factors in the aetiology of short stature complicating the treatment of brain tumours in childhood. If such a child is clinically well,shows a poor growth rate and biochemical evidence of GH deficiency,then a 1 year trial of GH is justified.The aim of this study is to evaluate growth and assessed Pituitary function (GH deficiency) in children who ...

Abstract: The risk of developing coeliac disease (CD) is higher in Turner syndrome (TS) than the general population, and screening has been recommended in asymptomatic individuals known to have an increased risk of developing the disease. In light of this recommendation, the aim of the study was to assess prevalence of celiac disease in Turner syndrome.Patients and methods: Serological screening of coeliac disease were performed in 85 children and adoles...

Background: Central diabetes insipidus (DIC) is usually the final result of lesions affecting the hypothalamic–neurohypophyseal system, for the children, germinoma is the main reason. The MRI aspect is often limited to thickness pituitary stalk with loss of hyperintensity of the neurohypophysis.Objective and hypotheses: Thickening of pituitary stalk is suggestive of germinoma, the clinical picture is dominated by a DIC (90%), associated to hypopitui...

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is advisable in all patients with GH deficiency (GHD). MRI pituitary morphology has important clinical implications, both in terms of diagnostic accuracy and long-term prognosis; indeed, when MRI findings are appropriately interpreted, they clearly represent a gold standard to investigate the etiology of GHD.Objective and hypotheses: To evaluate frequency and type of MRI anomalies in children with GHD, after d...

Background: Low bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with Turner syndrome (TS) has been reported in a considerable number of previous studies. Cortical and trabecular bone have been involved. Osteoporosis can be over diagnosed in TS patients with a short stature unless BMD measurements are adjusted for body size. Optimization of bone health in girls with TS requires a healthy active lifestyle, including adequate calcium, vitamin D, and hormonal replacement therapy, according...