Definition

Dwarfism is a term applied broadly to a number of conditions resulting in unusually short stature.

Description

While dwarfism is sometimes used to describe achondroplasia, a condition characterized by short stature and disproportionately short arms and legs, it is also used more broadly to refer to a variety of conditions resulting in unusually short stature in both children and adults. In some cases physical development may be disproportionate, as in achondroplasia, but in others the parts of the body develop proportionately. Short stature may be unaccompanied by other symptoms, or it may occur together with other problems, both physical and mental.

There are many conditions and diseases that can cause short stature. Some of these conditions involve a primary bone...