Dwarfism, or short stature, refers to underdevelopment of the body. Among the causes are:

• genetic: familial; abnormalities of chromosomes, for example, TURNER'S SYNDROME; abnormal skeletal development; and failure of primary growth.

• intrauterine growth retardation: maternal disorders; placental abnormalities; multiple fetuses.

• constitutional delay in normal growth

• systemic conditions: nutritional deficiencies; gastrointestinal absorption disorders; certain chronic diseases; psychosocial deprivation; endocrine malfunctions, including HYPOTHYROIDISM, CUSHING'S SYNDROME, RICKETS, dysfunction of the PITUITARY GLAND which produces growth hormone, the endocrine growth controller.

Treatment of short stature is, where possible, to remedy the cause: for example, children with hypothyroidism can be given THYROXINE. Children who are not growing properly should be referred for expert advice to determine the diagnosis and obtain appropriate curative or supportive treatments.