[Sequential infusion of GHRH 1-29NH2, LHRH and TRH for evaluating the hypophyseal reserve. Comparison with Politest].

Minerva endocrinologica1989PMID: 2561518

Plain Language Summary

Researchers compared a simplified pituitary function test using GHRH, LHRH, and TRH together with the traditional test that uses insulin-induced hypoglycemia to stimulate growth hormone. The GHRH-based combination test produced growth hormone responses similar to the insulin test in 89% of cases and had comparable results for other pituitary hormones. This GHRH-containing test offers a safer alternative to insulin-induced hypoglycemia for evaluating pituitary hormone reserve in patients with pituitary lesions.

Abstract

Fourteen patients with pituitary lesions and 6 normal subjects underwent the following tests: a) LHRH (100 mcg) + TRH (200 mcg) + Human Insulin (0.1 UI/kg) i.v. (Politest "A"); b) LHRH (100 mcg) + TRH (200 mcg) + GHRH 1-29NH2 (100 mcg) i.v. (Politest "B"); c) GHRH 1-29NH2 (100 mcg) i.v. (GHRH-TEST). FSH, LH and PRL, as assayed in patients and controls in response to Politest "A" and "B", revealed no significant differences between the tests. Plasma TSH values were significantly higher after Politest "B" in both patients and normals. The GH response after Politest "A" and "B" was similar in magnitude and concordant in 88.8% of cases.

Authors

Grossi, A; Barbetti, F; Bulletta, C; Ciampalini, P; Jaffrain-Rea, M L; Tamburrano, G