Growth in thyrotoxicosis

Abstract

To study the effect of thyrotoxicosis on growth, 46 children and adolescents presenting with thyrotoxicosis have been reviewed and followed up for several years, in most cases until adult height was achieved. At presentation the children were underweight for height but were above expected heights even if already well advanced in puberty. Despite bone ages often being very advanced at diagnosis, the condition had no adverse effect on ultimate stature, which was commonly greater than that expected on the basis of parental height. Weight was rapidly regained on treatment, but nevertheless the younger subjects continued to be underweight despite adequate prolonged control of thyrotoxicosis.