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| Short Stature
| | #REDIRECT [[Short stature]] |
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| Short stature refers to a condition where an individual's height is significantly below the average for their age and sex. It is a common concern in pediatric medicine and can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic conditions, hormonal imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies.
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| ==Causes==
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| Short stature can be classified into several categories based on its underlying causes:
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| ===Genetic Causes===
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| - '''[[Turner syndrome]]''': A chromosomal disorder affecting females, characterized by the partial or complete absence of one X chromosome.
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| - '''[[Achondroplasia]]''': A genetic disorder affecting bone growth, leading to disproportionate short stature.
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| - '''[[Familial short stature]]''': A condition where short stature is inherited from parents, with no underlying pathological cause.
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| ===Hormonal Causes===
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| - '''[[Growth hormone deficiency]]''': A condition where the pituitary gland does not produce enough growth hormone, leading to reduced growth velocity.
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| - '''[[Hypothyroidism]]''': An underactive thyroid gland can lead to growth retardation and short stature.
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| ===Nutritional Causes===
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| - '''[[Malnutrition]]''': Inadequate nutrition during critical growth periods can lead to stunted growth.
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| - '''[[Chronic illnesses]]''': Conditions such as [[celiac disease]] or inflammatory bowel disease can impair nutrient absorption, affecting growth.
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| ==Diagnosis==
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| The diagnosis of short stature involves a comprehensive evaluation, including:
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| - '''[[Growth charts]]''': Tracking growth patterns over time to identify deviations from expected growth trajectories.
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| - '''[[Bone age assessment]]''': X-rays of the hand and wrist to determine bone maturity compared to chronological age.
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| - '''[[Laboratory tests]]''': Assessing hormone levels, nutritional status, and screening for genetic conditions.
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| ==Management==
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| Management of short stature depends on the underlying cause:
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| - '''[[Hormone therapy]]''': Administration of growth hormone in cases of deficiency.
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| - '''[[Nutritional support]]''': Addressing dietary deficiencies and ensuring adequate caloric intake.
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| - '''[[Surgical interventions]]''': In some cases, such as achondroplasia, surgical procedures may be considered to correct bone deformities.
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| ==Prognosis==
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| The prognosis for individuals with short stature varies widely depending on the cause. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can improve outcomes and quality of life.
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| ==Also see==
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| - [[Dwarfism]]
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| - [[Endocrinology]]
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| - [[Pediatric growth disorders]]
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| {{Medical-stub}}
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| [[Category:Endocrinology]]
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| [[Category:Pediatrics]]
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| [[Category:Genetic disorders]]
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