Threshold of evaluation for short stature in a pediatric endocrine clinic: differences between boys versus girls?

Abstract

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.