Growth retardation

Growth retardation is a medical condition characterized by a delay in the physical development of an individual, often resulting in a shorter stature than average. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic disorders, malnutrition, and certain medical conditions.

Causes

The causes of growth retardation can be broadly categorized into three groups: genetic, nutritional, and medical.

Genetic Causes

Genetic causes of growth retardation include conditions such as Turner syndrome, Down syndrome, and Prader-Willi syndrome. These are inherited conditions that affect an individual's growth and development from birth.

Nutritional Causes

Malnutrition is a significant cause of growth retardation. This can occur when an individual does not receive adequate nutrition during critical periods of growth, such as during infancy and adolescence. Conditions such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa can also lead to growth retardation due to inadequate nutrition.

Medical Causes

Certain medical conditions can also cause growth retardation. These include chronic illnesses such as kidney disease, heart disease, and cystic fibrosis, as well as conditions that affect the body's ability to absorb nutrients, such as celiac disease and Crohn's disease.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of growth retardation typically involves a thorough medical history and physical examination, as well as growth charting and possibly genetic testing. Other diagnostic tests may include blood tests, imaging studies, and bone age studies.

Treatment

Treatment for growth retardation depends on the underlying cause. This may involve nutritional therapy, hormone therapy, or treatment of the underlying medical condition. In some cases, growth hormone therapy may be recommended.

See Also

• Short stature
• Failure to thrive
• Growth hormone deficiency