Researchers explore connection between growth hormone and kidney risk

Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy may be a potential risk factor for acute kidney injury (AKI), especially in the presence of infections and NSAID use, according to a new case report.

The case involved a 15-year-old male with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) who had been receiving daily somatropin therapy.

The patient presented with upper respiratory tract infection symptoms, vomiting, diarrhea, and bilateral flank pain after taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics. His creatinine levels rose from 2.8 mg/dL to 4 mg/dL within days, despite no signs of dehydration or significant proteinuria. A comprehensive autoimmune and renal workup was unremarkable, but a kidney biopsy revealed notable tubular and podocyte vacuolization.

Following the discontinuation of rhGH and treatment with corticosteroids, the patient’s renal function improved, and he was discharged with stable kidney function.

The study concludes that further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind rhGH-related renal complications and identify patients at higher risk.

Reference
Akl A, Kamal AA, Olfat ZT, et al. Long-Term Growth Hormone Associated With High Risk of Acute Kidney Damage. Cureus. 2025;17(2):e78680. doi: 10.7759/cureus.78680. PMID: 40062151; PMCID: PMC11890598.