small for gestational age
Birth weight below the 10th percentile for gestational age, indicating intrauterine growth restriction.
Full Definition
Small for gestational age (SGA) refers to infants whose birth weight falls below the 10th percentile for their gestational age based on standardized growth charts. This condition results from intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and can be caused by maternal factors (hypertension, malnutrition, smoking), placental insufficiency, fetal genetic conditions, or infections. SGA infants face increased risks of hypoglycemia, hypothermia, polycythemia, and long-term developmental consequences. The condition is distinguished from prematurity, as SGA infants may be born at term but with insufficient weight for their gestational age.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as SGA; always specify both birth weight and gestational age percentiles.
In Context
- "The term infant was classified as small for gestational age with birth weight at the 5th percentile." — delivery summary
- "Small for gestational age infants require close monitoring for hypoglycemia in the first 24 hours." — nursing protocol