TITLE:
Efficacy and Safety of Aromatase Inhibitor Combined with Growth Hormone in Korean Boys with Idiopathic Short Stature: A Retrospective Study
AUTHORS:
Youna Park
KEYWORDS:
Idiopathic Short Stature, Aromatase Inhibitor, Growth Hormone, Pubertal Growth, Off-Label Therapy
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Pediatrics,
Vol.15 No.6,
November
27,
2025
ABSTRACT: Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) have been suggested as adjuncts to delay skeletal maturation and extend growth potential in boys with idiopathic short stature (ISS), but evidence in Asian populations remains scarce. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of growth hormone (GH) and aromatase inhibitor (AI) combination therapy in Korean boys with ISS. We retrospectively analyzed 35 Korean boys with ISS treated between June 2023 and May 2025 at a single center. The GH + AI group was significantly older and had more advanced bone age than the GH-only group. The GH + AI group, which had a more advanced bone age at baseline, achieved an annual growth velocity of 5.21 ± 1.61 cm/year, whereas the younger GH-only group grew at 10.25 ± 2.54 cm/year. Despite the slower growth rate, bone maturation was significantly delayed in the GH + AI group, indicating preserved growth potential. Both groups exhibited significant increases in insulin-like growth factor 1 and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3, with higher levels in the GH + AI group than in the GH-only group at the last visit. Mild adverse events were reported without treatment discontinuation. GH + AI combination therapy may represent a safe and effective alternative for Korean boys with ISS and advanced bone age, particularly in late puberty when growth potential is limited.