Letrozole Effect on Final Height of Patients with Constitutional Delay of Growth and Puberty

Abstract

Introduction: The inhibitory effect of aromatase on predicted adult height and near final height has been studied in patients with constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP). Aim: This is the first study aimed at verifying the letrozole (Lz) effect on final height of patients with CDGP. Material and Methods: In this study 8 patients with CDGP underwent treatment with Lz (2.5 mg/day) for a year, and 8 patients with CDGP, who did not receive Lz were followed –up to reaching final height. Height discrepancy was calculated by subtracting PAH from final height measurement. Results: the final height for Lz and Control Groups were 171± 4.5 cm and 168.8±4.1Cm respectively. The final heights for Lz group were significantly (p=0.04) higher than the control group. Final height in comparison with PAH at the beginning of the study showed significant difference (p=0.022) in Lz group whereas the difference was not significant (p=0.8) in control group. For height discrepancy the measurements were +1.9 cm and +0.1 cm for Lz and control group respectively with significant difference (p=0.04). Conclusion: Our study, which is the first one in evaluating the impact of Lz on FH, illustrated that Lz treatment will ultimately lead to augmentation of FH in boys with CDGP.