Growth Hormone Deficiency
Diagnosis

To diagnose the condition, a physical exam and medical history will be performed to identify symptoms. In a child, weight, height and body proportions are measured to determine if there's a slow rate of growth.

In addition, the following tests may be performed:

• Blood tests to determine levels of hormones, including growth hormone and other endocrine hormones
• Bone mineral density scans to determine bone age and the development of osteoporosis, a common symptom
• Hand X-ray to identify bone age and possible osteoporosis
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head to determine other possible causes