Short stature and growth hormone.

ABSTRACT

Normal growth and development is a prime concern during childhood. Accurate assessment is essential for differentiating between normal and abnormal growth. Increased accessibility to growth hormone has equipped the pediatrician and pediatric endocrinologist to treat and improve growth in many clinical scenarios. At the same time, there is added responsibility to use this tool judiciously. This review summarizes the basics of proper growth assessment, differentiation of normal and abnormal growth causes of and works up of short stature, and delineation of indications for growth hormone treatment.