Growth Hormones And Growth Factors In Acromegaly And Beyond

At the 4th International Workshop of Highlights in Basic and Clinical Neuroendocrinology, held in Athens in November 2005, internationally recognized experts presented a series of lectures covering current knowledge in the treatment modalities for acromegaly and providing useful updates in basic research related to growth hormone and growth factors. The special issue starts with an historical annotation of acromegaly over the last 120 years. The reader can find up-to-date information regarding the use of somatostatin analogs in relation to somatostatin receptors for the treatment of acromegaly, the GH receptor antagonists and the role of IGF binding proteins. The diagnostic utility of PET imaging and dynamic tests for defining active acromegaly are reviewed. In addition, there are papers presenting the pathology of acromegaly and predictive markers of pituitary adenoma behavior, the molecular genetics in Carney Complex and genetic aspects, the regulation of the human GH gene family, and data of GH-secreting tumors from animal models. Regarding Neurosurgery, transsphenoidal microsurgery for newly diagnosed acromegaly and the endoscopic versus the traditional approach in pituitary surgery are presented. There is also additional information on acromegaly in relation to cancer, cardiovascular system and the questionable role of radiotherapy. Lastly, the quality of life and the cost of medical care for the acromegalic patient are discussed.

Readers of this book can update their knowledge in the fast-moving field of endocrinology and neurobiology. Topics concerning growth and development are extensively reviewed from both basic science and clinical viewpoints. Aspects related to growth development and to the control of cellular differentiation and multiplication are discussed. Further new information is provided on: synthetic recombinant human growth hormone (rHGH); potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications of the neuropeptide, growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH); the physiology and physiopathology of the neural control of growth hormone secretion; the diagnosis and therapy of growth hormone deficiency or excess states; and the biology, function and possible utilization of growth factors. These important new findings are relevant to progress in pediatrics, pediatric and clinical endocrinology, neuroendocrinology and physiology.

This revised new edition reviews the substantial advances in our understanding of the vital role of growth hormone (GH) in maintaining adult health, and the resulting disorders from GH deficiency. The first edition, published in 1996, provided a pioneering overview of the subject; this new edition provides an even more comprehensive account, fully updated with the latest research, clinical applications, and references. The therapeutic benefits of GH treatment in GH deficiency are thoroughly evaluated, including effects on metabolism, cardiac function, exercise performance, psychosocial aspects, and aging and gender-specific effects. This compilation by the world's leading experts covers clinical investigation, diagnosis and treatment issues, and encompasses new knowledge of the control and action of GH secretion. This volume is the most authoritative, comprehensive, and detailed account available and will be an essential source of reference for all endocrinologists.

It has been known for over 40 years that GH-deficient-children benefit from replacement with the hormone. But GH, essential for longitudinal growth, also plays a role after completion of final height. With the introduction of biosynthetic human GH 20 years ago, the use of GH was no longer restricted to severe growth retardation in hypopituitary children. This book will take the reader behind the myths of GH and into the real world of clinical endocrinology. The contributions stem from recognized clinicians and scientists who have been working in the field for decades. The contents encompass traditional end points of GH therapy such as body composition, bone biology and physical performance. Attention is also devoted to diagnostic aspects and side effects. Additional features range from clinical epidemiology to quality of life, and novel areas such as the impact of traumatic brain injury on pituitary function are also covered. The present volume of Frontiers of Hormone Research is essential reading for health care professionals interested in clinical endocrinology and GH.