Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
catch-up growth
Accelerated growth following resolution of growth-limiting conditions, indicating developmental recovery.
Full Definition
A period of above-normal growth velocity that occurs when growth-limiting factors are removed, allowing children to return toward their genetic growth potential. Common after resolution of chronic illness, malnutrition, or hormonal disorders. The timing and extent of catch-up growth provides important information about the reversibility of developmental delays and helps predict long-term outcomes. Incomplete catch-up growth may indicate ongoing underlying pathology or permanent effects of the original condition.
Usage
Usage note: Document growth velocity during catch-up period
In Context
- "The patient demonstrated excellent catch-up growth following celiac disease treatment." — Pediatric gastroenterology note
- "Lack of expected catch-up growth suggests ongoing nutritional deficiency." — Growth assessment report
Also known as
compensatory growth
recovery growth
Contrasted with
growth faltering
growth deceleration
Don't confuse with
normal growth acceleration
constitutional growth delay