An approach to "failure to thrive".

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Infants commonly present with failure to thrive. Psychosocial and nutritional causes are commonly responsible, but significant organic pathology requires exclusion in all children with failure to thrive. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses an approach to the assessment of infants presenting with failure to thrive, together with information on management and available resources. DISCUSSION: Close liaison between those involved in the management of infants presenting with failure to thrive--including family, maternal child health nurse, family doctor and paediatrician--should usually allow for appropriate intervention to correct the failure to thrive.