1.Long-term outcomes of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist treatment in girls with central precocious puberty
Jung HWANGBO ; Eungu KANG ; Hyo-Kyoung NAM ; Young-Jun RHIE ; Kee-Hyoung LEE
Annals of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism 2025;30(1):31-37
Purpose:
This study aimed to examine the effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) treatment on final height outcomes in girls with idiopathic central precocious puberty (CPP) from the start of treatment to their postmenarche visit.
Methods:
We conducted a retrospective analysis of 200 girls with idiopathic CPP who received GnRHa therapy, focusing on auxological and clinical outcomes at treatment initiation, treatment completion, and the last, postmenarche visit.
Results:
The mean chronological age (CA) at GnRHa treatment initiation was 8.24±0.73 years. The mean duration of GnRHa treatment was 3.12±0.81 years. The average age at menarche was 12.73±0.56 years, occurring a mean of 17.15±5.52 months after completing GnRHa therapy. The predicted adult height (PAH) standard deviation score (SDS) after menarche (0.48±0.99) was significantly greater than before treatment (-1.33±1.46) (P<0.001). Factors including greater bone age advancement (P<0.001), lower height SDS for CA at treatment initiation (P<0.001), and higher midparental height SDS (P=0.001) were positively associated with an increase in PAH SDS at the last visit. However, near-final height and the increase in PAH SDS at the last visit were not significantly different between patients who received early treatment (<8 years) and those who received later treatment (8–9 years).
Conclusion
GnRHa treatment improved the final height outcomes in all girls with CPP, including those treated between 8 and 9 years of age.
2.Constitutional Mismatch Repair Deficiency, the Most Aggressive Cancer Predisposition Syndrome : Clinical Presentation, Surveillance, and Management
Eungu KANG ; Jin Kyung SUH ; Sang-Dae KIM
Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society 2025;68(3):294-304
Constitutional mismatch repair deficiency (CMMRD) is a rare and highly aggressive cancer predisposition syndrome caused by biallelic germline mutations in mismatch repair genes. This condition is characterized by early-onset malignancies across multiple organ systems, including central nervous system tumors, hematological cancers, and gastrointestinal malignancies. CMMRD-associated tumors exhibit hypermutation and microsatellite instability, resulting in a high tumor mutation burden and rendering these malignancies responsive to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). ICIs targeting programmed cell death protein-1 and programmed cell death ligand 1 have demonstrated remarkable efficacy, particularly in hypermutated tumors, providing durable responses and improving survival outcomes. Advances in genetic and molecular diagnostics have enhanced the ability to identify CMMRD early, allowing for the implementation of comprehensive surveillance programs and improved management strategies. A multidisciplinary and individualized approach is essential for managing CMMRD patients. This review underscores the importance of early diagnosis, surveillance, and emerging therapeutic approaches to improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals and families affected by this devastating syndrome.
3.Constitutional Mismatch Repair Deficiency, the Most Aggressive Cancer Predisposition Syndrome : Clinical Presentation, Surveillance, and Management
Eungu KANG ; Jin Kyung SUH ; Sang-Dae KIM
Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society 2025;68(3):294-304
Constitutional mismatch repair deficiency (CMMRD) is a rare and highly aggressive cancer predisposition syndrome caused by biallelic germline mutations in mismatch repair genes. This condition is characterized by early-onset malignancies across multiple organ systems, including central nervous system tumors, hematological cancers, and gastrointestinal malignancies. CMMRD-associated tumors exhibit hypermutation and microsatellite instability, resulting in a high tumor mutation burden and rendering these malignancies responsive to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). ICIs targeting programmed cell death protein-1 and programmed cell death ligand 1 have demonstrated remarkable efficacy, particularly in hypermutated tumors, providing durable responses and improving survival outcomes. Advances in genetic and molecular diagnostics have enhanced the ability to identify CMMRD early, allowing for the implementation of comprehensive surveillance programs and improved management strategies. A multidisciplinary and individualized approach is essential for managing CMMRD patients. This review underscores the importance of early diagnosis, surveillance, and emerging therapeutic approaches to improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals and families affected by this devastating syndrome.
4.Long-term outcomes of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist treatment in girls with central precocious puberty
Jung HWANGBO ; Eungu KANG ; Hyo-Kyoung NAM ; Young-Jun RHIE ; Kee-Hyoung LEE
Annals of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism 2025;30(1):31-37
Purpose:
This study aimed to examine the effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) treatment on final height outcomes in girls with idiopathic central precocious puberty (CPP) from the start of treatment to their postmenarche visit.
Methods:
We conducted a retrospective analysis of 200 girls with idiopathic CPP who received GnRHa therapy, focusing on auxological and clinical outcomes at treatment initiation, treatment completion, and the last, postmenarche visit.
Results:
The mean chronological age (CA) at GnRHa treatment initiation was 8.24±0.73 years. The mean duration of GnRHa treatment was 3.12±0.81 years. The average age at menarche was 12.73±0.56 years, occurring a mean of 17.15±5.52 months after completing GnRHa therapy. The predicted adult height (PAH) standard deviation score (SDS) after menarche (0.48±0.99) was significantly greater than before treatment (-1.33±1.46) (P<0.001). Factors including greater bone age advancement (P<0.001), lower height SDS for CA at treatment initiation (P<0.001), and higher midparental height SDS (P=0.001) were positively associated with an increase in PAH SDS at the last visit. However, near-final height and the increase in PAH SDS at the last visit were not significantly different between patients who received early treatment (<8 years) and those who received later treatment (8–9 years).
Conclusion
GnRHa treatment improved the final height outcomes in all girls with CPP, including those treated between 8 and 9 years of age.
5.Constitutional Mismatch Repair Deficiency, the Most Aggressive Cancer Predisposition Syndrome : Clinical Presentation, Surveillance, and Management
Eungu KANG ; Jin Kyung SUH ; Sang-Dae KIM
Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society 2025;68(3):294-304
Constitutional mismatch repair deficiency (CMMRD) is a rare and highly aggressive cancer predisposition syndrome caused by biallelic germline mutations in mismatch repair genes. This condition is characterized by early-onset malignancies across multiple organ systems, including central nervous system tumors, hematological cancers, and gastrointestinal malignancies. CMMRD-associated tumors exhibit hypermutation and microsatellite instability, resulting in a high tumor mutation burden and rendering these malignancies responsive to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). ICIs targeting programmed cell death protein-1 and programmed cell death ligand 1 have demonstrated remarkable efficacy, particularly in hypermutated tumors, providing durable responses and improving survival outcomes. Advances in genetic and molecular diagnostics have enhanced the ability to identify CMMRD early, allowing for the implementation of comprehensive surveillance programs and improved management strategies. A multidisciplinary and individualized approach is essential for managing CMMRD patients. This review underscores the importance of early diagnosis, surveillance, and emerging therapeutic approaches to improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals and families affected by this devastating syndrome.
6.Long-term outcomes of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist treatment in girls with central precocious puberty
Jung HWANGBO ; Eungu KANG ; Hyo-Kyoung NAM ; Young-Jun RHIE ; Kee-Hyoung LEE
Annals of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism 2025;30(1):31-37
Purpose:
This study aimed to examine the effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) treatment on final height outcomes in girls with idiopathic central precocious puberty (CPP) from the start of treatment to their postmenarche visit.
Methods:
We conducted a retrospective analysis of 200 girls with idiopathic CPP who received GnRHa therapy, focusing on auxological and clinical outcomes at treatment initiation, treatment completion, and the last, postmenarche visit.
Results:
The mean chronological age (CA) at GnRHa treatment initiation was 8.24±0.73 years. The mean duration of GnRHa treatment was 3.12±0.81 years. The average age at menarche was 12.73±0.56 years, occurring a mean of 17.15±5.52 months after completing GnRHa therapy. The predicted adult height (PAH) standard deviation score (SDS) after menarche (0.48±0.99) was significantly greater than before treatment (-1.33±1.46) (P<0.001). Factors including greater bone age advancement (P<0.001), lower height SDS for CA at treatment initiation (P<0.001), and higher midparental height SDS (P=0.001) were positively associated with an increase in PAH SDS at the last visit. However, near-final height and the increase in PAH SDS at the last visit were not significantly different between patients who received early treatment (<8 years) and those who received later treatment (8–9 years).
Conclusion
GnRHa treatment improved the final height outcomes in all girls with CPP, including those treated between 8 and 9 years of age.
7.Constitutional Mismatch Repair Deficiency, the Most Aggressive Cancer Predisposition Syndrome : Clinical Presentation, Surveillance, and Management
Eungu KANG ; Jin Kyung SUH ; Sang-Dae KIM
Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society 2025;68(3):294-304
Constitutional mismatch repair deficiency (CMMRD) is a rare and highly aggressive cancer predisposition syndrome caused by biallelic germline mutations in mismatch repair genes. This condition is characterized by early-onset malignancies across multiple organ systems, including central nervous system tumors, hematological cancers, and gastrointestinal malignancies. CMMRD-associated tumors exhibit hypermutation and microsatellite instability, resulting in a high tumor mutation burden and rendering these malignancies responsive to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). ICIs targeting programmed cell death protein-1 and programmed cell death ligand 1 have demonstrated remarkable efficacy, particularly in hypermutated tumors, providing durable responses and improving survival outcomes. Advances in genetic and molecular diagnostics have enhanced the ability to identify CMMRD early, allowing for the implementation of comprehensive surveillance programs and improved management strategies. A multidisciplinary and individualized approach is essential for managing CMMRD patients. This review underscores the importance of early diagnosis, surveillance, and emerging therapeutic approaches to improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals and families affected by this devastating syndrome.
8.Obesity in Children and Adolescents: 2022 Update of Clinical Practice Guidelines for Obesity by the Korean Society for the Study of Obesity
Eungu KANG ; Yong Hee HONG ; Jaehyun KIM ; Sochung CHUNG ; Kyoung-Kon KIM ; Ji-Hee HAAM ; Bom Taeck KIM ; Eun Mi KIM ; Jung Hwan PARK ; Sang Youl RHEE ; Jee-Hyun KANG ; Young-Jun RHIE
Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome 2024;33(1):11-19
The prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents has been gradually increasing in recent years and has become a major health problem. Childhood obesity can readily progress to adult obesity. It is associated with obesity-related comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and the risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It is important to make an accurate assessment of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents with consideration of growth and development. Childhood obesity can then be prevented and treated using an appropriate treatment goal and safe and effective treatment strategies. This article summarizes the clinical practice guidelines for obesity in children and adolescents that are included in the 8th edition of the Clinical Practice Guidelines for Obesity of the Korean Society for the Study of Obesity.
9.Cohort profile: Multicenter Networks for Ideal Outcomes of Rare Pediatric Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases in Korea (OUTSPREAD study)
Yun Jeong LEE ; Chong Kun CHEON ; Junghwan SUH ; Jung-Eun MOON ; Moon Bae AHN ; Seong Hwan CHANG ; Jieun LEE ; Jin Ho CHOI ; Minsun KIM ; Han Hyuk LIM ; Jaehyun KIM ; Shin-Hye KIM ; Hae Sang LEE ; Yena LEE ; Eungu KANG ; Se Young KIM ; Yong Hee HONG ; Seung YANG ; Heon-Seok HAN ; Sochung CHUNG ; Won Kyoung CHO ; Eun Young KIM ; Jin Kyung KIM ; Kye Shik SHIM ; Eun-Gyong YOO ; Hae Soon KIM ; Aram YANG ; Sejin KIM ; Hyo-Kyoung NAM ; Sung Yoon CHO ; Young Ah LEE
Annals of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism 2024;29(6):349-355
Rare endocrine diseases are complex conditions that require lifelong specialized care due to their chronic nature and associated long-term complications. In Korea, a lack of nationwide data on clinical practice and outcomes has limited progress in patient care. Therefore, the Multicenter Networks for Ideal Outcomes of Pediatric Rare Endocrine and Metabolic Disease (OUTSPREAD) study was initiated. This study involves 30 centers across Korea. The study aims to improve the long-term prognosis of Korean patients with rare endocrine diseases by collecting comprehensive clinical data, biospecimens, and patient-reported outcomes to identify complications and unmet needs in patient care. Patients with childhood-onset pituitary, adrenal, or gonadal disorders, such as craniopharyngioma, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), and Turner syndrome were prioritized. The planned enrollment is 1,300 patients during the first study phase (2022–2024). Clinical, biochemical, and imaging data from diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up during 1980–2023 were retrospectively reviewed. For patients who agreed to participate in the prospective cohort, clinical data and biospecimens will be prospectively collected to discover ideal biomarkers that predict the effectiveness of disease control measures and prognosis. Patient-reported outcomes, including quality of life and depression scales, will be evaluated to assess psychosocial outcomes. Additionally, a substudy on CAH patients will develop a steroid hormone profiling method using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to improve diagnosis and monitoring of treatment outcomes. This study will address unmet clinical needs by discovering ideal biomarkers, introducing evidence-based treatment guidelines, and ultimately improving long-term outcomes in the areas of rare endocrine and metabolic diseases.
10.Barriers and Facilitators of Pediatric Obesity Prevention and Management (POPM) Programs in Korea: Focusing on the Questionnaire About the Linkage in Community Level
Sujin PARK ; Hyo Seon JEONG ; Young-Min NOH ; Eungu KANG ; Yong Hee HONG ; Sochung CHUNG
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2024;39(40):e261-
Background:
Recent global trends indicate a rise in pediatric obesity, reflecting patterns also observed in South Korea. Given its significant impact on chronic disease prevalence in adulthood, pediatric obesity poses potential societal challenges. For pediatric obesityrelated prevention or management programs in community level to operate effectively, there needs to be a clear understanding of barriers and facilitators of the programs. This study aims to establish a foundation for policy implementation, contributing to pediatric obesity prevention and management (POPM) in Korea.
Methods:
A survey was conducted among program providers involved in domestic POPM programs. A total of 577 individuals completed the survey, including those working in elementary and middle schools (n = 508) and public health centers (n = 69) nationwide. The questionnaire comprised 67 questions covering characteristics of respondents, purpose and contents of POPM programs, measurement of program outcome, level of inter- and intrainstitutional linkage, difficulties in operating programs and factors that facilitate programs.A 5-point Likert scale was used for most questions. Descriptive statistics was employed to analyze characteristics of respondents in POPM programs. The level of linkage in POPM programs was assessed using perceived importance and actual degree of linkage. The difficulties in operating POPM programs were analyzed based on agreement responses, and facilitating factors of program activation were analyzed based on importance responses.
Results:
The domestic POPM program showed low actual linkage compared to its perceived importance, both between institutions and among professions within institutions.Difficulties in operating the program included securing availability of students, encouraging participation of reluctant students and development of new programs. The survey suggested that schools require support from parents, guardians and family members, while public health centers need professional providers to facilitate such programs.
Conclusion
The study highlights the urgent need for strategies to address pediatric obesity in South Korea. Weak institutional linkages hinder effective programs. Challenges include student availability, participation, and the need for innovative programs. New approaches to build partnerships in harmony among institutions are necessary. Implementing findings into policy can help prevent obesity in Korean children and adolescents.

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