Intrauterine growth restriction

Abstract

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) represents fetal growth that is less than the potential, and presumably optimal, rate of growth of a specific fetus. Intrauterine growth restriction is highly variable and depends on the severity, duration, and time of occurrence during gestation of disorders that cause growth failure. Because growth is fundamental in the fetus, nearly any aberration in fetal condition can lead to growth failure. Growth failure also occurs after birth, particularly in preterm infants who are not nourished sufficiently to produce normal growth and who experience many disorders that interfere with normal nutritional metabolism that supports growth.