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Growth Failure

Slowing of height and weight development can largely be corrected if recognized early and the cause is investigated.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Growth Failure?

Growth failure may arise from organic (chronic disease, hormonal disorder, genetic syndrome) or non-organic (malnutrition, psychosocial stress) causes. Growth hormone deficiency, hypothyroidism, celiac disease, and Turner syndrome are among the important organic causes.

Periodic height-weight measurement and bone age (left hand-wrist X-ray) are essential for growth assessment. Growth velocity is more important than a single measurement; growth velocity obtained at 6-12 month intervals is the gold standard.

Growth hormone therapy is administered in proven deficiency cases and certain special indications (Turner, chronic kidney failure, SGA); earlier initiation provides better results.

Symptoms

Height and/or weight tracking below the 3rd percentile
Growth velocity falling below 4 cm/year (school age)
Late tooth eruption and bone maturation
Pubertal delay
Fatigue, loss of appetite, or frequent infections (signs of organic cause)
Disproportionate weight excess relative to short stature (hypothyroidism)

Risk Factors

Family history of short stature (constitutional short stature)
Low birth weight / SGA (small for gestational age)
Chronic disease (celiac, Crohn's, kidney disease)
Hormonal disorder (GH deficiency, hypothyroidism)
Genetic syndromes (Turner, Down, Noonan)
Psychosocial deprivation and malnutrition

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When the growth curve crosses below 2 major percentile lines on follow-up
  • When annual height increase is less than 4 cm (at school age)
  • If puberty has not begun by age 13 (girls) or 14 (boys)
  • If growth failure is accompanied by additional symptoms (hair loss, constipation, etc.)

Treatment Methods

01
Nutritional support: dietitian-guided calorie and protein concentration
02
Treatment of underlying disease: thyroxine, gluten-free diet, anti-inflammatory therapy, etc.
03
Growth hormone therapy: in proven GH deficiency and special indications
04
Psychosocial support and family education
05
Regular growth monitoring and bone age follow-up
06
Genetic and endocrinology consultation when needed

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.