A 7-year-old child who is otherwise healthy is receiving mecasermin [Increlex] replacement therapy to treat severe primary deficiency of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). The child develops tonsillar hypertrophy. The nurse anticipates that the provider will recommend:
A) antibiotics.
B) reducing the dose of mecasermin.
C) discontinuing the mecasermin.
D) tonsillectomy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mecasermin can cause hypertrophy of the tonsils, which can be managed by tonsillectomy if needed. Antibiotics are not indicated, because the tonsil enlargement is not caused by infection. Neither reducing the dose of mecasermin nor discontinuing the drug is indicated.

A 7-Year-Old Child Who Is Otherwise Healthy Is Receiving Mecasermin