Growth Parameters in Neonates

Growth parameters and gestational age Gestational Age Gestational age and growth parameters help identify the risk of neonatal pathology. Gestational age is the primary determinant of organ maturity. Gestational age is usually defined as the number... read more help identify the risk of neonatal pathology. Growth is influenced by genetic and nutritional factors as well as intrauterine conditions. Growth parameters assessed at birth help predict subsequent growth and development and risk of disease. The parameters are length Length Physical growth includes attainment of full height and appropriate weight and an increase in size of all organs (except lymphatic tissue, which decreases in size). Growth from birth to adolescence... read more , weight Weight Physical growth includes attainment of full height and appropriate weight and an increase in size of all organs (except lymphatic tissue, which decreases in size). Growth from birth to adolescence... read more , and head circumference Head Circumference Physical growth includes attainment of full height and appropriate weight and an increase in size of all organs (except lymphatic tissue, which decreases in size). Growth from birth to adolescence... read more .

By plotting weight vs gestational age, each infant is classified at birth as

The Fenton growth charts ( see Figure: Fenton growth chart for preterm boys Fenton growth chart for preterm boys and see Figure: Fenton growth chart for preterm girls Fenton growth chart for preterm girls ) provide a more precise assessment of growth vs gestational age for all three parameters.