Sleep related growth hormone and prolactin secretion in children during constant rate enteral nutrition.

: The aim of this study was to investigate the nocturnal secretion of growth hormone and prolactin in a particular model where nutrients are delivered continuously. Six children with severe intestinal diseases undergoing total constant rate enteral nutrition for 1.5 to 8 months have been studied; all children had a normal nutritional status at the time of the recording. Sleep patterns were studied by the usual polygraphic methods from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. Blood samples were taken every 20 min through an indwelling catheter for growth hormone and prolactin plasma level determination. Several growth hormone peaks were observed with a peak always secreted in connection with stage III-IV of the first cycle. This early peak was significantly higher than the following ones. Nocturnal patterns of prolactin secretion showed individual differences characterized by a series of episodic releases which consisted of a few long rises (4 patients) and several small fluctuations; no correlation was found with the sleep patterns; no increase in the level throughout the night was observed. Loss of the rhythmicity of alimentation does not alter the secretion of growth hormone during sleep.