large for gestational age
Birth weight above the 90th percentile for gestational age, often associated with maternal diabetes.
Full Definition
Large for gestational age (LGA) describes infants whose birth weight exceeds the 90th percentile for their gestational age based on standardized growth references. This condition is commonly associated with maternal diabetes mellitus, either pre-gestational or gestational, which leads to fetal hyperinsulinemia and excessive growth. LGA infants face increased risks during delivery including shoulder dystocia, birth trauma, and cesarean section, as well as postnatal complications such as hypoglycemia, respiratory distress, and polycythemia. These infants also have elevated long-term risks for obesity and metabolic disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as LGA; distinguish from general macrosomia which refers only to weight >4000g.
In Context
- "The large for gestational age infant required glucose monitoring due to maternal gestational diabetes." — nursery assessment
- "Delivery complications included shoulder dystocia related to the large for gestational age status." — delivery note