Failure to thrive (FTT) is a condition in which a child’s current weight or rate of weight gain is much lower than that of other children of similar age and gender. It can be the result of certain medical conditions or environmental factors.
What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Failure to Thrive (FTT)?
Delayed mental skills
Delayed physical skills (such as rolling over, sitting, standing, walking)
Delayed secondary sexual characteristics (in adolescents)
Delayed social skills
Growth that has stopped or slowed
Height, weight, and head circumference that do not match standard growth charts
Lack of weight gain
Weight loss
Weight lower than the third percentile of standard growth charts, or 20 percent below the ideal weight for the child’s height
How is Pediatric Failure to Thrive (FTT) diagnosed?
There are several tests to diagnose failure to thrive. A doctor will go over your child's medical history and perform a physical exam. Your healthcare provider may also perform one or more of the following tests:
Blood tests to look for underlying medical causes
Denver Developmental Screening Test - a test designed to identify developmental delays in children
Urine tests to look for underlying medical causes
X-rays to determine growth issues
What are the causes of Pediatric Failure to Thrive (FTT)?
Several factors can contribute to your child's failure to thrive. At Children’s Health, we use a multidisciplinary approach to diagnose, treat and care for children who are failing to thrive. This allows us to offer our patients care by multiple specialists and experts, in a single appointment, at one location.
Medical conditions that may lead to failure to thrive include:
Exposure to infections, parasites, or environmental toxins
Lack of an emotional bond between the parent and the child
Lack of understanding about the child’s dietary needs
How is Pediatric Failure to Thrive (FTT) treated?
The reason for your child's failure to thrive will determine the treatment. Your healthcare provider may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
Family counseling to treat any contributing psychological or emotional issues
Nutritional therapy to promote weight gain and to correct any vitamin or mineral deficiencies
Parental education to address your child’s dietary needs
Treatments for any contributing medical conditions
Pediatric Failure to Thrive (FTT) Doctors and Providers