# Otolaryngological Problems Among Patients with Growth Hormone Deficiency—A Systematic Review

## TL;DR

This review finds that over half of patients with growth hormone deficiency experience ENT issues like hearing loss and voice changes, highlighting the need for routine ENT evaluations.

## Contribution

The study systematically quantifies the prevalence of ENT symptoms in GHD patients and emphasizes the importance of ENT assessments in their care.

## Key findings

- Over 60% of GHD patients experience ENT symptoms such as hearing loss and dizziness.
- ENT symptom prevalence correlates with treatment access, age of onset, and comorbidities.
- Routine ENT evaluations are recommended to improve outcomes in GHD patients.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a rare endocrine disorder characterized by inadequate secretion of growth hormone, which affects growth, cellular processes, and physiological functions. In addition to growth impairment, GHD is associated with a range of otorhinolaryngological (ENT) symptoms, such as sensorineural hearing loss, dizziness, and voice alterations. These symptoms may be underrecognized due to a lack of routine ENT evaluations in GHD management. Methods: This systematic review, conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, assessed the prevalence of ENT symptoms in patients with GHD by analyzing studies from the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. Results: Based on the analysis of eleven studies that met the inclusion criteria, more than half of patients with GHD experience ENT symptoms (61.4%). Symptom variability appeared to correlate with treatment access, age of onset, and the presence of comorbidities. The study underscores the importance of routine ENT assessments as part of the multidisciplinary management of patients with GHD. Conclusions: Early detection and management of ENT symptoms may significantly improve quality of life, reduce social and educational challenges, and support long-term health outcomes. Further research is needed to clarify the role of recombinant human growth hormone therapy in mitigating ENT manifestations in this patient population.