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Idiopathic Short Stature

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Idiopathic short stature is a disorder affecting a child's height. It is equally common in girls and boys, and does not have any definite cause. Children suffering from idiopathic short stature (ISS) are short in height with no known cause.

Children who are generally shorter than the normal population are considered to be suffering from this disorder. Because there is no known cause for this disorder, it is considered a clinical description rather than a disease. The growth rate of a child with ISS may be normal, with no deficiency of growth hormone. However, they have shorter statures than their peers of comparable age and height – shorter than 1.2% of the population.

When to seek expert advice

If you feel that your child is shorter than their peers, you must get your child assessed by a qualified medical professional. The earlier you take your child for an evaluation, the better the chances of helping your child’s height grow.

Consult with a paediatric endocrinologist at the Department of Paediatrics to have your child assessed for idiopathic short stature.

Disclaimer

The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.

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