User:Mr. Ibrahem/Dwarfism
Medical condition / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Dwarfism is when an person is exceptionally short.[1] This is sometimes defined as an adult height of less than 147 centimetres (4 ft 10 in).[2] There are two main types: disproportionate dwarfism with short limbs and proportionate dwarfism with both short limbs and torso.[1] Intelligence is usually normal, as is life expectancy.[2] Other symptoms may depend on the underlying cause.[5]
Dwarfism | |
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Other names | Restricted growth, dwarf, little person (LP), person of short stature |
A man in Columbus, Indiana, with dwarfism caused by achondroplasia | |
Pronunciation | |
Specialty | Endocrinology, medical genetics |
Types | Proportionate, disproportionate[1] |
Causes | Short parents, growth hormone deficiency, genetic disorders[1] |
Diagnostic method | Height < 147 centimetres (4 ft 10 in)[2] |
Treatment | Based on the cause[3] |
Medication | Growth hormone therapy[3] |
Prognosis | Generally normal life expectancy[2] |
Frequency | ~2.5% (USA)[4] |
The most common cause of proportionate dwarfism is having short parents; though it may also occur due to growth hormone deficiency, Turner syndrome, and other genetic conditions.[1] Disproportionate dwarfism is most commonly due to achondroplasia.[1] More than 300 conditions can result in dwarfism.[2] Diagnosis may occur before, at, or some time after birth.[1]
Treatment depends on the underlying cause.[3] Those with growth hormone deficiency and certain other conditions may be treated with growth hormone therapy.[3] In cases with particularly short legs, surgery to lengthen them may be carried out, though this is generally not recommended.[3][4] Other measures may include physiotherapy and modification of the persons environment.[3][6] Women with disproportionate disease who become pregnant generally require cesarean delivery.[7]
Dwarfism affects about 2.5% of people in the United States.[4] Most people prefer the use of their name; though terms such as "little person" (LP), "person of short stature", or "dwarf" may be used.[8] Historically, the term "midget" was used; however, this term is now often regarded as offensive.[9][7] Those affected may face height discrimination and bullying.[7] Support groups may provide services and resources.[10]