Sri Lanka

RMF is providing the treatment with Human Growth Hormone for this child.

Report by Prof. Sujeewa Amarasena and Dr. Tikiri Gunawardana
Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ruhuna, Galle, Sri Lanka

Mohamed Farook Fazeer Ahamed is a ten-year-old boy who has been investigated for poor linear growth in the Paediatric Unit. His stature is significantly low according to age related norms and when compared to his genetic potential as evidenced by parental heights.

On investigation his growth hormone response to provocation tests is partially deficient thus confirming partial deficiency of growth hormone. It is an isolated deficiency since other endocrine hormones due to pituitary trophic hormones are normal (i.e. Adrenal cortex hormones and thyroid hormones). A hypothalamic space occupying lesion has been excluded by brain imaging. His educational progress is good. The only treatment available is growth hormone treatment, which is expensive.

He needs at least a commitment for treatment for two years duration. (Growth hormone requirement 120mg/year).

He could become a very productive individual to society if this condition is ameliorated especially due to his good educational background. It will definitely improve his self-esteem and his productivity as an individual.