Failure to thrive

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Growth failure; FTT

Infants or children who fail to thrive have a height, weight, and head circumference that do not match standard growth charts. The person's weight falls lower than 3rd percentile (as outlined in standard growth charts) or 20% below the ideal weight for their height. Growing may have slowed or stopped after a previously established growth curve.

The following are delayed or slow to develop:

• Physical skills such as rolling over, sitting, standing and walking
• Mental and social skills
• Secondary sexual characteristics (delayed in adolescents)

The doctor will perform a physical exam and check the child's height, weight, and body shape. A detailed history is taken, including prenatal, birth, neonatal, psychosocial, and family information.

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A Denver Developmental Screening Test reveals delayed development. A growth chart outlining all types of growth since birth is created.

The following laboratory tests may be done:

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Electrolyte balance
• Hemoglobin electrophoresis to determine the presence of conditions such as sickle cell disease
• Hormone studies, including thyroid function tests
• X-rays to determine bone age
• Urinalysis

Review Date: 08/02/2009
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).