dwarfism

(noun)

a condition caused by a lack of growth hormone, resulting in short stature and limbs that are disproportionately small in relation to the body

Related Terms

Examples of dwarfism in the following topics:

  • Regulation of the Cell Cycle by External Events

    • A lack of HGH can inhibit cell division, resulting in dwarfism, whereas too much HGH can result in gigantism .
    • Commodore Nut (right) was a famous circus performer afflicted with dwarfism.

  • Hormonal Regulation of Growth

    • Underproduction of GH in adults does not appear to cause any abnormalities, but in children it can result in pituitary dwarfism, in which growth is reduced.
    • Pituitary dwarfism is characterized by symmetric body formation.

  • Cartilaginous Joints: Synchodroses

    • Those with achondroplasia (a form of dwarfism) have premature closure of the epiphyseal growth plates, which results in shorter than average arms and legs.

  • Applications of Genetic Engineering

    • Another byproduct is a type of human growth hormone; it's used to treat dwarfism and is produced through genetically-engineered bacteria and yeasts.

  • Hormonal Abnormalities and Height

    • It can be caused by mutations of specific genes, damage to the pituitary gland, Turner's syndrome, poor nutrition, or even stress (leading to psychogenic dwarfism).

  • Development of the Endocrine System

    • Hypothyroidism in children, a condition known as cretinism, can result in mental retardation, dwarfism, and permanent sexual immaturity.