Medical Health Encyclopedia

Small for gestational age (SGA)

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W Y

Overview

Small for gestational age (SGA)

Definition:

The term "small for gestational age", or SGA, means a fetus or infant is smaller in size than is expected for the baby's gender, genetic heritage, and gestational age.

Alternative Names:
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR); Low birth weight

Text Continues Below

---

Information:

Ultrasound is used to identify intrauterine growth restriction (a developing fetus that is smaller-than-normal for its age). The most widely used definition of SGA is birth weight below the 10th percentile.

Neonatal growth restriction is a syndrome that includes small size and specific metabolic abnormalities. These abnormalities include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level), hypothermia (low body temperature), and polycythemia (increased level of red blood cells).

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.