Table 2.

Growth hormone for Prader–Willi syndrome: challenges for future research

Pediatric age

Optimal dosage of GH therapy

Effects of GH treatment in children born SGA (compared to AGA)

Clinical impact of GHD on GH therapeutical response

Transition phase

Evaluation of GH secretory pattern with respect to the clinical response of subsequent GH therapy

Clinical effects of GH therapy early after completion of linear growth and influence of GH secretory status

Adult age (≥25 years)

Evaluation of GH secretory pattern with respect to the clinical response of subsequent GH therapy

Influence of GH therapy in non-GH-deficient patients

Cardiovascular and respiratory effects of GH treatment

All ages

Long-term surveillance of benefits and risks of GH replacement, including risk of neoplasia

Genotype–phenotype correlation and GH therapy

Role of GH therapy on bone health

Role of concomitant therapies on GH therapeutic effects (sex steroids, diet, physical therapy, etc)

Abbreviations: GH, growth hormone; SGA, small for gestational age; AGA, appropriate for gestational age; GHD, GH deficiency.