Growth And
Puberty
Growth
Accurate measurement of growth
is a vital part of the assessment of children. In order to interpret a child's
growth, measurements must be plotted on a growth
chart. If there is concern about growth, the rate of growth must be
assessed by measuring the child on two occasions at least 4–6 months apart.
Examples of growth charts
Premature baby
Coeliac disease
•
Note fall-off in weight at time of weaning when
wheat was introduced
•
The fall-off in length follows later
Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR)
•
Low birthweight baby
•
Many IUGR babies show catch-up but this baby clearly has not, and may have reduced
growth potential
•
The IUGR probably started early in pregnancy
because head circumference and length are also
affected
Puberty
Puberty is evaluated by clinical examination of the genitalia, breasts
and secondary sexual characteristics. The scale used is known as Tanner
staging.
