growth velocity
Rate of linear growth measured over time, particularly important in monitoring children with chronic kidney disease.
Full Definition
Growth velocity refers to the rate of increase in height over a specific time period, typically expressed as centimeters per year or standard deviation scores. In pediatric nephrology, growth velocity is a crucial parameter for monitoring children with chronic kidney disease, as uremia, metabolic acidosis, malnutrition, and medications can significantly impair linear growth. Normal growth velocity varies by age, with infants growing approximately 25 cm/year in the first year, 10-12 cm/year in early childhood, and 5-7 cm/year during school age. Poor growth velocity may indicate inadequate treatment of CKD-related complications, necessitating interventions such as growth hormone therapy, nutritional optimization, or correction of metabolic bone disease.
Usage
Usage note: Should be measured over adequate time intervals (6-12 months) to assess meaningful changes in growth patterns.
In Context
- "The patient's growth velocity had declined to below the 3rd percentile, prompting evaluation for growth hormone deficiency." — Pediatric endocrinology consultation
- "Serial measurements showed improved growth velocity following initiation of growth hormone therapy." — CKD clinic follow-up note