Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is inadequate production or secretion of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary, leading to growth failure. Affected individuals should be tested for other pituitary hormone abnormalities.

• Congenital form – Infants may have only slightly reduced birth length, but growth failure becomes apparent during the first 6-12 months of life. Bone age is usually delayed to a similar degree as is height relative to age.
• Acquired form – Children may present with severe growth failure, delayed bone age, short stature compared to weight and age, immature facies with underdeveloped nasal bridge and frontal bossing, infantile voice, micropenis in males, and delayed puberty.
• Acquired form – In adults, deficiency is usually in conjunction with other pituitary hormone deficits and can affect body composition, fracture risk, and quality of life.