Concerns About Short Stature and Low Weight in Children: What to Know

Children are not growing taller or gaining weight?

Hello! My little girl is shorter and lighter than other children her age.
She is 2 years and 4 months old, with a height of 80.3 cm and a weight of 10.6 kg.
Her IQ and motor coordination seem fine, but I'm concerned about her height and weight.
Her mother is 170 cm tall and her father is 174 cm tall, but the father has thalassemia.
Six months ago, we visited the pediatric genetics department at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and found out that the child also has mild thalassemia.
The doctor mentioned that her bones are fine, but six months have passed and she doesn't seem to have grown much.
I'm really worried and wonder if there could be any underlying issues or if we should consult other specialists.
Does thalassemia affect height and weight? Thank you!

Xiao Dou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/19

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello! 1.
Individuals with mild Mediterranean anemia who are carriers typically do not experience growth issues.
2.
A girl aged two years and four months measures 80.3 cm, which is below the 3rd percentile; her weight is 10.6 kg, approximately at the 10th percentile, which seems inconsistent with her parents' heights.
3.
Assessing bone age, along with blood, stool, and urine tests, may be considered.
Wishing you good health and all the best! Sincerely, Dr.
Pei Ren-Sheng, Attending Physician, Pediatrics, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/08/19

More Info

Concerns about short stature and low weight in children are common among parents, especially when they notice their child is smaller than peers. In your case, your daughter, who is 2 years and 4 months old, has a height of 80.3 cm and a weight of 10.6 kg. While these measurements may seem concerning, it is essential to consider several factors before jumping to conclusions.

Firstly, growth patterns in children can vary significantly. Genetics plays a crucial role in determining a child's growth trajectory. Given that both parents are of average height (170 cm and 174 cm), it is reasonable to expect that your daughter may fall within a similar range. However, it is also important to note that children grow at different rates, and some may experience growth spurts later than others.
Your daughter's current height and weight place her below the average for her age group, but this does not necessarily indicate a health problem. The World Health Organization (WHO) growth standards provide a reference for assessing children's growth. For a child of her age, the average height is around 85-90 cm, and the average weight is approximately 12-14 kg. However, being slightly below these averages does not automatically imply a medical issue, especially if she is meeting developmental milestones, such as cognitive and motor skills.

Regarding your concern about Mediterranean anemia (thalassemia), it is essential to understand that while this condition can affect overall health, it typically does not directly impact height and weight unless it leads to significant health complications. Mild forms of thalassemia often do not require treatment and may not have a noticeable effect on growth. However, it is crucial to monitor her hemoglobin levels and overall health regularly. If her anemia is well-managed and she is otherwise healthy, it is unlikely to be the primary cause of her short stature and low weight.

If you are still concerned about her growth, it may be beneficial to consult a pediatric endocrinologist. They can evaluate her growth patterns more thoroughly, including assessing her growth hormone levels and conducting bone age assessments through X-rays. This evaluation can help determine if her growth is within a normal range for her age or if there are underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In terms of nutrition, ensuring that your daughter has a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is vital for her growth and development. Focus on providing a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. If she has a limited appetite or is a picky eater, consider consulting a pediatric nutritionist who can offer tailored advice and strategies to encourage healthy eating habits.

In summary, while your daughter's height and weight may be a concern, it is essential to consider her overall health, genetic background, and developmental milestones. Regular check-ups with her pediatrician and possibly a referral to a specialist can provide peace of mind and ensure she receives the appropriate care and support for her growth and development.

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