INTRODUCTION TO ABNORMALITIES OF GROWTH

Abnormalities of growth refer to deviations from the normal patterns of physical growth and development. These deviations can be classified into two categories: physiological and pathological abnormalities.

1) Physiological abnormalities of growth are variations from the normal pattern of growth that occur within the normal range and are not associated with any underlying disease or disorder. Examples of physiological abnormalities of growth include:

• Familial short stature: Short stature that runs in families and is not associated with any underlying medical condition.
• Constitutional growth delay: A temporary delay in growth that results in a child being shorter than average but eventually reaches a normal adult height. It is usually due to a delay in the onset of puberty.

2) Pathological abnormalities of growth are deviations from the normal pattern of growth that are associated with an underlying disease or disorder. Examples of pathological abnormalities of growth include:

• Achondroplasia: A genetic disorder that affects bone growth, resulting in short stature with disproportionately short arms and legs.
• Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, resulting in delayed growth and development.
• Turner syndrome: A genetic disorder that affects girls and results in short stature and delayed puberty.
• Growth hormone deficiency: A condition where the body does not produce enough growth hormone, resulting in delayed growth and development.

Causes of pathological abnormalities of growth can be genetic, environmental, or a combination of both.

Genetic causes include inherited disorders such as Turner syndrome or achondroplasia.

Environmental causes include malnutrition, chronic illness, and exposure to toxins. Some growth abnormalities may be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

It is important to identify and treat pathological abnormalities of growth as early as possible to prevent long-term complications such as delayed development, skeletal abnormalities, and reduced adult height. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and may include hormone therapy, nutritional support, or surgery.