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Growth hormone deficiency (GHD), or hyposomatotropism, occurs when the pituitary gland doesn't make enough growth hormone (GH), which affects how the body grows and how well it works. In children, the main sign is delayed linear growth, which is often less than the usual height velocity for their age. This causes short stature with otherwise normal body proportions. Children that are afflicted may look younger than their friends, be overweight, go through puberty later than normal, and have facial traits that are not fully developed. However, their intelligence typically remains unaffected.

GHD can be present at birth (congenital) or developed later in life due to genetic disorders, anomalies of the pituitary or hypothalamus, tumours, head trauma, infections, or radiation therapy. In adults, the insufficiency frequently occurs after a pituitary or cerebral injury and may coexist with additional hormone shortages. Some of the symptoms are more fat in the stomach, less muscular mass, tiredness, low bone density, higher cholesterol, and a lower quality of life.
To rule out tumours or structural problems, diagnosis includes looking at growth curves, blood testing for GH and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), and imaging of the pituitary gland. Treatment usually involves daily subcutaneous injections of recombinant human growth hormone. This can help children grow at a normal rate and help adults with their body composition, activity ability, and cardiovascular risk when started early and monitored.