Growth and endocrine function among children who received bone marrow transplantation

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Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) has become a standard treatment for various hematological or nonhematological disorders. Since the number of long-term survivors is increasing, the effect on growth and endocrine function has become an essential issue. In this study, these matters were evaluated among children who underwent BMT.Growth failure is quite prevalent among children who received BMT. Those who had BMT at younger age had a higher risk of growth failure. The prevalence of GH deficiency was very low, and GH deficiency was not a major contributing factor for growth failure.Gonadal failure became apparent from about 10 years of age in children who underwent BMT at young age. However, about 2/3 of girls experienced menarche suggesting the favorable outcome of ovarian function in girls who receive BMT at younger age. Testosterone production was fairly preserved in the marrow recipient.Transient decrease in FT4 and TSH was observed after BMT, indicating the presence of sick euthyroid state. Thyroid function became normal within a year. Few patients developed primary hypothyroidism several years after the transplant. In conclusion, long-term assessment of growth and endocrine function is mandatory to improve the quality of life of marrow recipient.