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Poor Weight Gain

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology (SA Saeed and E Mezoff, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Treatment Options in Pediatrics Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Poor weight gain is a common presenting problem in pediatrics. We review literature supporting the notion that extensive workup is generally not needed, particularly in younger children and discuss a management approach depending on a patient’s age.

Recent Findings

Understanding normal growth, particularly in infancy, is important. Breastfed and formula-fed infants as well as older children have different etiologies for poor growth. Diagnostic workup and hospitalization are rarely indicated or useful. An attempt to increase energy intake is often the appropriate first step in management.

Summary

Poor weight gain can affect children of all ages. Understanding expected growth, common etiologies by age, and how to assess nutritional status can help with appropriate diagnostic workup and management.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA

    Tanyaporn K. Kaenkumchorn MD

  2. Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, and Nutrition, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA

    Praveen S. Goday MBBS

Authors
  1. Tanyaporn K. Kaenkumchorn MD
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  2. Praveen S. Goday MBBS
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Correspondence to Praveen S. Goday MBBS.

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Tanyaporn K. Kaenkumchorn and Praveen S. Goday each declare no potential conflicts of interest.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Pediatric Gastroenterology

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Kaenkumchorn, T.K., Goday, P.S. Poor Weight Gain. Curr Treat Options Peds 8, 369–381 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40746-022-00253-y

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