O nly recently has the importance of growth hormone in adults been recognized. Somatotropin is another name for growth hormone.
Hormones are chemical messages produced by special cells in glands and other organs of the body.
A syndrome is a set of signs and symptoms that occur together and result from the same cause. A single measurement of growth hormone levels is rarely useful, since growth hormone concentration is normally low most of the day and is released in pulses, not a steady secretion. Therefore, a lack of response to standard growth hormone stimulation tests is required for accurate diagnosis. The diagnosis of Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency also requires a prior history of childhood growth hormone deficiency or a history of organic pituitary disease. After a review of all criteria, an adult endocrinologist will make the diagnosis.