The Impact of Growth Hormone Therapy on Adult Height in Noonan Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Background: Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) is being used to promote linear growth in short children with Noonan syndrome. However, its efficacy is still controversial. Aims: To systematically determine the impact of rhGH therapy on adult height in children with Noonan syndrome. Methods: We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ISI Web of Science, MEDLINE, and the bibliographic references from all retrieved articles published until April 2014. Studies reporting adult/near-adult height in children with Noonan syndrome treated with rhGH or reporting at least a 3-year follow-up were analysed. Quality and strength of recommendation were assessed according to the Endocrine Society criteria. Results: No controlled trials reporting adult height were available. Five studies were identified reporting adult height or near adult height. Data comparison showed inter-individual variability in the response to rhGH, mean height gain standard deviation score ranging between 0.6 and 1.4 according to national stanReceived: October 15, 2014 Accepted: December 17, 2014 Published online: February 21, 2015 HORMONE