Growing is a big part of your child’s life, from tracking height with pencil ticks on the wall to a shopping trip to replace outgrown clothing. Growth refers to the physical and developmental milestones that most children will reach at certain ages. If your child is growing too slowly or too quickly, the Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Service at Michigan Medicine offers comprehensive treatment plans for children of all ages who face a variety of growth challenges.
Typically, from the age of 3 until puberty, a child should grow at least two inches each year. If your child appears to be growing too slowly – or too quickly – an evaluation is warranted.
A variety of disorders of the endocrine system can affect growth, including:
- Growth hormone deficiency
- Hypothyroidism – thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone
- Hyperthyroidism – thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone
- Excess cortisol production
- Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia – too much androgen hormone
- Turner syndrome – a chromosomal condition in girls
- Precocious puberty – entering puberty early
- Delayed puberty – entering puberty late
Our team thoroughly evaluates each child with a physical examination and analysis of the growth pattern over time. Often it is necessary to obtain blood tests and an X-ray of the hand to understand bone growth. We also consider family growth patterns. If indicated, we will recommend the treatment needed to replace a missing hormone, or suppress hormones that are too high.
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For more information or to make an appointment, call 734-764-5175.