Growth retardation: an approach to management.

The physician who looks after children and teenagers is often confronted with the problem of short stature or growth failure. A major concern is when, and how extensively, to investigate the problem. From a practical standpoint, assessment can be related to height percentiles. The aims of treatment are to identify and treat appropriately the patients in whom there is an organic cause and to provide psychologic counselling and support. Common causes of growth failure are identified and a simple approach to management is outlined.