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Small for gestational age (SGA)
Definition:
A term that refers to an infant or a fetus in the uterus that is smaller in size than is expected for an infant or a fetus of similar gender, genetic heritage, and gestational age.

Alternative Names:
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR); Low birth weight

Information:

Ultrasound criteria are the diagnostic standard used in the identification of intrauterine growth restriction. Birth weight below the population 10th percentile, corrected for gestational age, has been the most widely used definition.

Neonatal growth restriction is recognized as a syndrome encompassing small size as well as specific metabolic abnormalities including hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level), hypothermia (low body temperature), and polycythemia (increased level of red blood cells).
Review Date: 9/7/2001
Reviewed By: Peter J. Chen, M.D. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by Verimed Healthcare Network.
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