Caused by a combination of genetic and endocrine factors characterized by a shortness in stature that results from premature ossification of the epiphysis of the long bones.
A condition in which the growth of a person has stopped, leaving him or her much smaller than average.
Abnormal (reduced) growth due to a deficiency in growth hormone production.
Dwarfism is defined in terms of adult height less than or equal to 4 foot 10 inches as a result of a medical or genetic disorder (Little People of America [LPA], 2000). It is estimated that dwarfism affects over 290,000 people worldwide (LPA, 2000). Dwarfism is an umbrella term for multiple disorders; it is estimated that there are approximately 200 types of dwarfism (LPA, 2000). Of these, the most frequently occurring is achondroplasia. Whereas dwarfism of all types is associated with short stature, more specific characteristics (e.g., associated medical conditions) vary by type. Some forms of dwarfism disproportionately affect specific ethnic groups (e.g., Ellis-van Creveld syndrome, cartilage-hair hypoplasia), whereas others (e.g., achondroplasia) are prevalent at approximately the same rate across ethnic groups. Similarly, gender appears to be a factor for some forms of dwarfism, but not others.
Underdevelopment of the body, characterized primarily by abnormally short stature, often with underdeveloped limbs and other defects. Causes include genetic defects, pituitary or thyroid malfunctioning, kidney disease, and certain other disorders.
Abnormally short stature from any cause. The most common type of dwarf is the achondro plastic dwarf. Pituitary dwarfs have a deficiency of growth hormone due to a defect in the pituitary gland; they are well proportioned and show no mental retardation, but may be sexually underdeveloped. Primordial dwarfs have a genetic defect in their response to growth hormone. Dwarfism is also associated with thyroid deficiency, in which both physical and mental development are retarded; chronic diseases such as rickets; renal failure; and intestinal malabsorption.
The condition of being abnormally small. It may be hereditary or a result of endocrine dysfunction, nutritional deficiency, renal insufficiency, diseases of the skeleton, or other causes.
A congenital disorder characterized by impaired bone growth, which leads to reduced height and weakened bones, is known as osteogenesis imperfecta. This condition affects the body’s ability to produce strong and healthy bones, making individuals more susceptible to fractures and causing them to have shorter stature than average.