Order cardiorespiratory polysomnography before starting growth hormone. Overnight oximetry is not the same test.
GH here is used for body composition and tone, not as a height product. The 2024 British paediatric guidance treats full sleep studies as required before treatment. Pulse oximetry is a screen. Published series include starts as early as 3 months. Central apnea is not an automatic reason to wait indefinitely.
- 01 BEFORE THE FIRST DOSE
Do the sleep study, treat airway problems, then start
The 2022 sleep-medicine review recommends screening before GH and says the test should not postpone treatment indefinitely. Moderate or severe obstructive apnea needs airway treatment. It does not always mean GH can never be used.
{comic_thumb("en", "ssleep", "Comic: vial and sleep monitor")} - 02 AFTER STARTING
Watch the first 6 to 10 weeks
Apnea in this syndrome is not always obvious. The British paper suggests a study every 2 to 3 years under age 5 while on GH, sooner if something changes. Yearly oximetry is only a screen.
{comic_thumb("en", "gh", "Comic: night table with vial and cannula")} - 03 WHAT GH IS FOR
Body composition and tone, not only height
Adult dosing is covered on the adulthood page. This page is about starting in infants and children.
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