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Threshold of evaluation for short stature in a pediatric endocrine clinic: differences between boys versus girls?
Joyce M Lee1, Matthew M Davis, Sarah J Clark
1Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA. joyclee@med.umich.edu
Insights
More boys than girls were evaluated for short stature in a pediatric endocrinology clinic, especially during adolescence. This study analyzed the height, age, and sex distribution of these pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Growth Disorders
Background:
- Short stature and poor growth are common concerns in pediatric endocrinology.
- Understanding the demographic distribution of evaluated children is crucial for resource allocation and care planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the distribution of children evaluated for poor growth or short stature based on height, age, and sex.
- To identify any demographic patterns in the utilization of pediatric endocrinology services for growth-related concerns.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2001 to July 2003.
- Data on sex, age, height, and parental height were collected from new patient visits for short stature.
Main Results:
- The age distribution at presentation exhibited a bimodal pattern.
- No significant differences in height z-score or height deficit were observed between genders.
- A higher overall number of boys compared to girls were evaluated for short stature.
Conclusions:
- More male children than female children were evaluated, with a notable increase during adolescence.
- The reasons for this gender disparity in seeking subspecialty care for growth issues require further investigation.
Objectives:
To determine the height, age, and sex distribution of children evaluated for poor growth or short stature in a pediatric endocrinology clinic.
Study Design:
Cross-sectional study between March 2001 and July 2003. Sex, age, height, and parental height were abstracted from new patient visits for short stature.
Results:
There was a bimodal pattern for the age distribution at presentation. There were no significant gender differences in height z-score or height deficit. Overall, more boys than girls were evaluated.
Conclusions:
More males than females were evaluated, particularly during adolescence. The implications of this differential utilization of subspecialty care remain to be determined.
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