Growth failure

Growth failure is a childhood condition in which a child grows more slowly and ends up shorter than peers of the same age and sex, often signalling a hormonal or kidney disorder. It is a common complication of chronic kidney disease in children, especially when diagnosed young or with severe kidney loss. Causes include malnutrition, bone and mineral disorders, metabolic acidosis, growth hormone resistance, delayed puberty and, in other children, too little growth hormone from the pituitary gland. Shorter than average height and slowed growth are the main features, and affected children may have low self-esteem and poor school performance. Doctors track height on growth charts and may add growth hormone and IGF-1 blood tests or a bone age X-ray. Treatment combines dietary and nutritional support, medicines for underlying causes such as bone disorders or acidosis, kidney transplantation where relevant, and growth hormone therapy.

Seek urgent care for very high thirst and urination with vomiting or drowsiness, or for severe weakness with a very slow or fast pulse. See a doctor for unexplained weight change, constant tiredness, feeling unusually hot or cold, or a family history of diabetes or thyroid disease. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.