Infections and Drug Therapies: Their Effects on Adolescent Growth and Sexual Maturation

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.159463242806

• Palavras-chave: Growth interference; Chronic infections; Antiretroviral therapy; Pediatric endocrinology; Delayed puberty.

• Keywords: Growth interference; Chronic infections; Antiretroviral therapy; Pediatric endocrinology; Delayed puberty.

• Abstract: INTRODUCTION The introduction discusses the intricate processes of puberty and growth, emphasizing their regulation by hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors. It highlights how infections, such as HIV and tuberculosis, and chronic illnesses can interfere with these processes, leading to significant delays in growth and sexual maturation. The introduction also covers the impact of various medications, including antibiotics, antivirals, corticosteroids, and chemotherapy, on growth patterns. The importance of understanding these interferences for public health and clinical practice is underscored. OBJETIVE To explore the impact of infections and medications on puberty, growth, and sexual development in children and adolescents METHODS This is a narrative review which included studies in the MEDLINE – PubMed (National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health), COCHRANE, EMBASE and Google Scholar databases, using as descriptors: “Puberty and growth” AND “Infections” AND “Medications” AND “Sexual development” AND “Endocrine disruption” in the last years. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The results and discussion section delves into the detailed analysis of how specific infections and medications impact growth and puberty. It presents data showing that infections like HIV and tuberculosis lead to delayed puberty and stunted growth due to chronic inflammation, immune system impairment, and nutritional deficiencies. The section also examines the role of medications, such as antiretrovirals and corticosteroids, in exacerbating these growth delays. The discussion highlights the complex interactions between infections and medications and the need for a multidisciplinary approach to manage these issues effectively. It also addresses the psychosocial impacts of delayed puberty and the importance of tailored interventions to support affected children and adolescents. CONCLUSION The conclusion emphasizes the multifaceted nature of growth interference due to infections and medications, calling for comprehensive public health strategies and clinical management approaches. It underscores the need for early detection, effective treatment, and ongoing support to mitigate the impact of these factors on development. The conclusion also highlights the importance of further research and global collaboration to enhance our understanding and develop innovative strategies for managing growth delays in children and adolescents.