The discovery of new hormones that appear to play a role in the control of appetite has led to investigations on their potential role in failure to thrive. The following examples illustrate the spectrum of potential interactions between organic and nonorganic features in children with FTT. Conversely, the increased prevalence of FTT in children with chronic medical conditions has been emphasized by the recent pediatric malnutrition working group, which recommended that malnutrition be characterized explicitly with reference to the specific pathologic state. While classically viewed as a behavioral (ie, nonorganic) problem, it is now appreciated that identifiable and treatable pathologies can be antecedents of this behavior and must be eradicated to reverse this situation. However, the complexity of inadequate intake has now been studied in more detail. Nonorganic failure to thrive is defined as a consequence of inadequate energy intake. Organic FTT is secondary to inadequate intake, increased losses, compromised utilization of ingested calories, excessive metabolic demands, or combinations of these factors. Two significant developments in the approach to the child with FTT have begun to dramatically influence the approach to these children. This is especially relevant throughout the developing world, in rural and impoverished inner city children, and in those with multiple chronic illnesses.

It is easier to appreciate that in certain children, FTT can be a prelude to significant physical and cognitive morbidity, including stunting, and mortality.

However, despite significant attention, the consequences of FTT on developmental outcomes in industrialized children is controversial, as discussed in the section on prognosis below. and numerous review articles have been written. All standard pediatric textbooks have sections on this topic, Because sequential measurements of growth are vital aspects of preventive pediatrics, FTT is a concern for all pediatric heath care providers. It is defined as a significant interruption in the expected rate of growth during early childhood. Failure to thrive (FTT) is both a descriptive term for various entities and a diagnosis.

Hx of failure to thrive meaning