Dr Jeanne Wong

11/05/2026

As a paediatric endocrinologist, I commonly see children referred for concerns about poor growth. While many cases are related to nutrition, genetics or underlying illnesses, some children may have hormonal causes that are important not to miss.

Adam (name changed for privacy) was born with a normal weight and length, and his first few years of development appeared completely normal.

But around the age of 3, his parents noticed something subtle — his clothes seemed to last much longer than expected. While his friends continued growing taller each year, Adam’s height barely changed. By age 5, he was significantly shorter than his peers and often mistaken for a much younger child. He also had a more “babyish” appearance and gained weight mainly around his tummy despite eating a normal diet.

Further assessment showed that his growth rate had slowed significantly. Further tests confirmed Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) and his MRI shows a small pituitary gland. His other pituitary hormones were also evaluated.

Although GHD is less common compared to other causes of poor growth, such as nutritional problems or chronic illnesses, it remains an important diagnosis to exclude in children with faltering growth. Early recognition can make a significant difference.

I’m happy to share my latest newspaper column on Growth Hormone Deficiency in children. Link to full article below (free online access is usually only for one week)

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/health/hormones-and-kids/2026/05/11/when-your-child-isn039t-growing-like-they-should

10/05/2026

Is your child not growing as expected? My monthly column today in the Sunday Star Hormones and Kids on Growth Hormone Deficiency in children, causes and treatment. Look out for the free star online version in the next 1-2 days! (Will share link when out)

07/05/2026

The Pituitary Gland the "Master Gland" 🧠✨
Though only the size of a pea, the pituitary gland in our brain is the tiny powerhouse controlling all our body functions via multiple hormones. It acts like a conductor, signaling everything from metabolism to growth and puberty in children.

15/04/2026

A teenage girl presented like a “typical” exam-stressed, emotional adolescent ~anxious, irritable, breathlessness, with a racing heart. But within hours, she was diagnosed with something far more serious: a thyroid storm.

Hyperthyroidism in children can be subtle at first and undiagnosed for months -weight loss despite a good appetite, mood changes, heat intolerance, and palpitations. These signs are often mistaken for stress or hormonal changes in adolescence.

In her case, the warning signs were missed until her body could no longer cope. A thyroid storm is a life-threatening emergency, where excessive thyroid hormones overwhelm the body, causing high fever, severe tachycardia, respiratory distress, agitation, and even organ failure.

Sharing my latest published article in the Star on thyroid storm and hyperthyroidism in children. Click on link for full article

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/health/hormones-and-kids/2026/04/13/when-a-child039s-thyroid-gland-goes-into-overdrive

12/04/2026

08/04/2026

☀️ Vitamin D Deficiency in Children: Hidden in Plain Sight

Even in sunny Malaysia, vitamin D deficiency is common in children and adults.

Why it matters:
Essential for strong bones, growth, and immune health.

Why so common?
Indoor lifestyles
Limited sun exposure
Skin protection & pigmentation factors
Low dietary intake

For growing children who are at risk, vitamin D3 supplements are often required :
Treatment options vary:
Daily oral drops/tablets
Oral sprays
Intermittent high-dose therapy

📌 The right choice depends on the child—age, deficiency level, and compliance all matter.

Always consult your paediatrician or paediatric endocrinologist for the appropriate formulation and dosing.

03/04/2026

Dear parents Dr Jeanne Wong will be on leave 4th-6th April Sat- Monday. Back on 7th. Have a wonderful weekend! 🌻🫶

21/03/2026

🌙✨ Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri! ✨🌙

Semoga hari yang mulia ini membawa kegembiraan dan keberkatan kepada anda dan keluarga tercinta. Semoga hubungan yang terjalin sentiasa erat, dan hati kita dipenuhi dengan keikhlasan serta kemaafan.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful celebration filled with peace, happiness, and blessings. May this festive season bring forgiveness, unity, and warmth to every home.

Maaf Zahir dan Batin.
Have a wonderful Hari Raya! 🕌💛

14/03/2026

14/03/2026

Petua Ramadan 2

DKA dan Puasa

Mengapa risiko DKA meningkat?
Semasa berpuasa, kanak-kanak dengan diabetes mungkin kurang insulin, tidak makan, atau kurang minum. Tanpa insulin yang mencukupi, badan akan memecahkan lemak dan menghasilkan keton. Keton yang tinggi boleh menyebabkan asid dalam badan meningkat dan komplikasi Diabetes Ketoacidosis (DKA), iaitu keadaan kecemasan yang berbahaya terhadap nyawa.

Apa yang perlu dipantau?
✅ Paras gula darah (lebih kerap)
✅ Paras keton (jika gula tinggi atau anak tidak sihat)
✅ Tanda dehidrasi (mulut kering, kurang kencing)
✅ Tanda bahaya: muntah, sakit perut, pernafasan laju, terlalu letih

👉 Puasa mesti dibatalkan dan dapatkan rawatan segera jika keton positif atau ada gejala.

Why is there a risk of DKA with fasting ?

During fasting, children with diabetes may get too little insulin, miss meals, or become dehydrated. When the body lacks insulin and is dehydrated, it breaks down fat for energy, producing ketones. High ketones lead to high acid, very high levels lead to Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious and life-threatening condition.

What to monitor?
✅ Blood glucose (check more often)
✅ Ketone levels (especially if sugar is high or child feels unwell)
✅ Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, low urine)
✅ Warning symptoms: vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid breathing, extreme tiredness

👉 Break the fast and seek medical help if ketones are positive or symptoms appear.