The term “dwarfism” in medicine refers to small stature. Height-vertex below two standard deviations (-2SD) or in the third percentile for a specific age and sex is what is meant by this term. When the head is in the Frankfurt-horizontal plane, the standing height is calculated from the ground to the vertex. The majority of individuals dislike the term “dwarf” and prefer to refer to themselves as “Little people,” and they also have a group called “Little People of America.”
Based on the patient’s physical characteristics, dwarfism can be broadly divided into two types: proportional short stature (PSS) and disproportionate short stature (DSS). As the term suggests, proportional short stature (PSS) refers to a person’s proportionately short limbs and trunk.
Disproportionately short stature (DSS), on the other hand, denotes that the person’s trunk or extremities are small and that there is a big disparity between their sitting and standing heights. The goal of the assessment and evaluation of the kid is to determine the pathological causes of low stature and to take appropriate action. When someone is low in stature, they are considered dwarfs.
Adult height is typically four feet, 10 inches or less as a result. Being below the height growth curve for their age is what it entails for kids. Since this falls below the third percentile, 97% of kids are taller at the same age. People with this condition typically prefer the labels “short-statured” or “small person” over “dwarf.” Many individuals find the term “midget” to be insulting. The numerous forms of dwarfism will be covered in this page. Additionally, it will discuss the reasons of dwarfism and how a doctor would identify it.
