07/20/2026
Question: 2880: Abnormally short stature due to impaired growth is termed as:
A. Gigantism
B. Acromegaly
C. Marasmus
D. Dwarfism ✅
Abnormally Short Stature Due to Impaired Growth is Termed as:
Normal growth depends on adequate growth hormone secretion, proper nutrition, and normal bone development. When growth is significantly impaired, resulting in an abnormally short adult height, the condition is known as dwarfism.
Why is Dwarfism Correct?
✅ Dwarfism is a condition characterized by abnormally short stature due to impaired skeletal growth or growth hormone deficiency.
Common causes include:
Growth hormone deficiency (pituitary dwarfism)
Genetic disorders (e.g., achondroplasia)
Chronic childhood illnesses
Congenital skeletal abnormalities
Characteristics:
Adult height significantly below average
May have proportionate or disproportionate body size depending on the cause
Normal intelligence in most forms, especially achondroplasia
Simple understanding:
Think of growth as a tree growing taller. If the growth process is impaired, the tree remains much shorter than expected—this is similar to dwarfism.
Why Are the Other Options Wrong?
Gigantism
Caused by excess growth hormone before puberty.
Results in abnormally tall stature.
Acromegaly
Caused by excess growth hormone after puberty.
Leads to enlargement of the hands, feet, and facial bones, not increased height.
Marasmus
A form of severe protein-energy malnutrition.
Causes weight loss and wasting but is not the medical term for short stature.
Final Answer D. Dwarfism