Description
This review describes the phenomenon of growth in
childhood, the range of normality and the disorders
that may impede normal growth. The techniques
for measuring height accurately are described, a prerequisite
for screening for growth disorders and for
monitoring treatment, which are elementary in the
management of children.
Guidelines are provided for the management of
children who present with short or tall stature but
are healthy. Such children need to be monitored at
regular intervals so that parental reassurance can be
provided. The importance of early identification and
referral of children with a suspected pathological cause
for variation is emphasised.
