Characterization of Nocturnal Ultradian Rhythms of Melatonin in Children with Growth Hormone-Dependent and Independent Growth Delay1

• DOI: 10.1210/jcem.86.3.7319
• Publication Date: 2014-01-08T17:06:16Z
• Authors: A. Muñoz-Hoyos; R. Jaldo; A. Molina-Carballo; G. Escames; M. Macías; J. M. Fernández-...; R. J. Reiter; D. Acuña-Castrov...
• Keywords: Adult; Male; Periodicity; 0303 health sciences; 03 medical and health sciences; Human Growth Hormone; Child, Preschool; Humans; Female; Child; Growth Disorders; Melatonin

To assess the existence of a possible nocturnal ultradian rhythm melatonin in children, we analyzed 28 pediatric patients (mean age, 9.08 +/- 2.2 yr) with GH-dependent and GH-independent growth delay. Plasma was measured by RIA children sampled every 30 min between 2100-0900 h. Statistical analysis consisted cluster to examine presence peaks troughs. The pattern levels related cause delay, although means concentrations were similar all children. Interestingly, GH deficit showed nearly normal profile, whereas values but abnormal displayed atypical profiles melatonin. results also prove an most studied. characterized irregular interburst intervals, thus differing from previously described adults that had almost constant pulse frequency. Moreover, low high producers revealed study, feature unrelated group lowest integrated production area These exhibit like adults. Whereas it is not clear whether episodic required for its biological actions, pulses may reflect endocrine influences at this age and/or immaturity intrinsic generator.