Growth and Weight Flashcards
What is the main determinant of growth in an infant?
Nutrition
What is the main determinant of growth in childhood?
Growth hormone-IGF axis
What is the main determinant of growth in puberty?
Sex hormones
Give 6 measurements that can be taken to assess a child’s growth
Vertical height Length Sitting height Head circumference Weight Skinfold measurement Bone age Mid-parietal height
Why is taking a head circumference important when measuring child growth?
Can be a sign of genetic condition (microcephaly/macrocephaly)
Can be a sign of severe malnutrition
What is a bone age scan?
X-ray of the non-dominant wrist looking at the growth plates in 13 different carpal bones. Used to estimate final height and can signify early puberty if growth plates are closed prematurely
How is mid-parietal height worked out for a boy?
((Father’s height + Mother’s height)/2) + 7.0 cm = MPH +/- 10cm
How is mid-parietal height worked out for a girl?
((Father’s height + Mother’s height)/2) - 7.0 cm = MPH +/- 8.5cm
Give 5 causes of short stature
Constitutional shortness IUGR Delayed puberty Achondroplasia GH deficiency Hypothyroidism Poor nutrition Psychosocial Turner's syndrome Chronic illness
Give 5 possible causes of low weight
Constitutional Psychosocial Coeliac IUGR Immunodeficiency (HIV etc) Genetic causes GH deficiency GORD
Give 3 main causes of childhood obesity
Nutritional –> excess eating
Genetic –> eg Prader Willi
Endocrine –> hypothyroid, Cushings
Give 3 things to ask in the history of an obese child
Diet and lifestyle Any emotional or behavioural issues Complications- MSK, fatigue, snoring, lack of concentration at school Learning difficulties FHx of diabetes, obesity, CV disease
Give 5 complications of childhood obesity
Low self esteem Bullying in school Increased risk of diabetes , hypertension, dyslipidemia Orthopaedic problems Sleep apnoea Obesity as an adult PCOS Asthma
