Immunoreactive growth hormone in endemic cretins in Ecuador.

Resumen

Abstract Basal growth-hormone levels were measured in 14 endemic cretins (6 of whom were severely dwarfed) under treatment with thyroid globulin extract ('Proloid') or iodised oil fluid injections ('Ethiodol') or both, and in 6 other persons from two villages in the Andes of North Central Ecuador, where endemic goitre is severe; All 20 showed detectable levels of immunoreactive human growth hormone (I.R.-H.G.H.). 10 of 11 cretins and 4 others given an insulin-I.R.-H.G.H. test responded to 0.15 unit per kg. insulin with a brisk rise in serum I.R.-H.G.H. Plasma-hydrocortisone also rose after insulin administration in 3 of 4 cretins and in 4 others in whom it was measured. Serum-thyroxine concentrations were in the low-to-normal range.