|
Small for gestational age (SGA)
Definition
Small for gestational age (SGA) means a developing baby in the womb or an infant is smaller in size than normal for the baby's gender and gestational age.
Alternative Names
Low birth weight
Information
Ultrasound is used to find out if a developing baby (fetus) is smaller than normal for age (intrauterine growth restriction). The most widely used definition of SGA is birth weight below the 10th percentile.
A developing baby with intrauterine growth restriction will be small in size and can have problems such as:
- Increased red blood cells (polycythemia)
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Low body temperature (hypothermia)
References
Carlo WA. Prematurity and intrauterine growth restriction. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 91.2.
Review Date:
8/12/2011
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
