ACMG practice guideline: Genetic evaluation of short stature

Abstract

Short stature is a common indication for genetic evaluation. The differential diagnosis is broad and includes both pathologic causes of short stature and nonpathologic causes. The purpose of genetic evaluation for short stature is to provide accurate diagnosis for medical management and to provide prognosis and recurrence risk counseling for the patient and family. There is no evidence-based data to guide the geneticist in an efficient, cost-effective approach to the evaluation of a patient with short stature. This guideline provides a rubric for the evaluation of short stature evaluation and summarizes common diagnoses and clinical testing available. ©2009The American College of Medical Genetics.