Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Pituitary dwarfism is a growth disorder caused by insufficient secretion of growth hormone (GH) from the pituitary gland during childhood. This condition results in a shorter stature than average, without proportionate abnormalities in body size.
Related terms
Growth Hormone (GH): A hormone produced by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration in humans and other animals.
A pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain, responsible for regulating vital body functions and general well-being through the secretion of hormones.
Hypothalamus: A region of the brain that controls an array of bodily functions including temperature regulation, thirst, hunger, sleep, mood, and the release of hormones from the pituitary gland