Growth effect of human chorionic gonadotrophin in 2-8-year-old boys with undescended testes.

Growth-promoting effect of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) was studied in 40 boys of 2-8 years with unilateral undescended testes. A transient acceleration of height and weight increase was noted that exceeded rates found in normal puberty. No significant advance in bone age was noted following treatment. On the basis of this study we conclude that short-term HCG treatment does not change the growth pattern or bone age of 2-8-year-old boys.