What mechanism can lead to an acquired Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD)?
Answer
Damage from head injury or radiation treatment near the pituitary
Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) occurs when the pituitary gland fails to release sufficient Growth Hormone (GH). While GHD can be congenital, meaning it is present from birth due to underlying genetic or structural anomalies, it can also be acquired later in life. An acquired deficiency arises from external damage affecting the pituitary gland, which is situated at the base of the brain. Significant trauma, such as a severe head injury, or medical interventions like radiation therapy directed near the pituitary area, can cause damage to the gland sufficient to inhibit or stop its normal production and secretion of GH, thus causing the deficiency.
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