If there is an inadequate amount of thyroxine made, it can be replaced by tablets prescribed by the doctor and taken by mouth. Cortisol is made by the adrenal glands located on top of each kidney. Cortisol has effects on fat storage, glucose production and bone strength as well as aiding the body to handle the stress of illness or injury. Unlike thyroxine deficiency, it is excessive cortisol production which stunts growth. There are also other signs that indicate excessive cortisol such as muscle wasting and weakness, weight gain, easy bruising and thinning of the skin.
Treatment depends on the cause of the problem.
Growth Hormone is made by the pituitary gland located in the middle of the head at the base of the brain. Children with growth hormone deficiency usually have a dramatic slowing of growth and may be overweight for their height. They may have younger looking faces than their actual age, but have normal body proportions. Diagnosis is made with blood tests and treatment is the replacement of growth hormone by injection 3-7 times per week. Treatment continues until the bone growth plates fuse indicating that growth is completed.