McArthur R G, Fagan J E
Can Med Assoc J. 1977 May 7;116(9):1012-7.
The physician who looks after children and teenagers is often confronted with the problem of short stature or growth failure. Common causes of growth failure include genetic background, intrauterine disease, malnutrition, chronic illness and hormonal disorders; some cases are attributed to mental retardation or primary central nervous system disease. A major concern in the evaluation of these patients 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 a) to identify and treat appropriately the patients in whom there is an organic cause and b) to provide psychologic counselling and support.
照顾儿童和青少年的医生经常面临身材矮小或生长发育迟缓的问题。生长发育迟缓的常见原因包括遗传背景、宫内疾病、营养不良、慢性疾病和激素紊乱；有些病例归因于智力迟钝或原发性中枢神经系统疾病。评估这些患者时的一个主要问题是何时以及在多大程度上对该问题进行调查。从实际角度来看，评估可以与身高百分位数相关。治疗的目的是：a）识别并适当治疗存在器质性病因的患者；b）提供心理咨询和支持。
