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postnatal growth
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postnatal growth

physiology
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Postnatal growth is a complex process involving changes in different tissues and body regions that mature at varying rates. Height is a primary indicator of growth, reflecting skeletal development. This growth occurs in distinct phases: from conception to birth, birth to puberty, and during puberty.

Hormones play a crucial role, with pituitary growth hormone, thyroid hormones, and sex hormones influencing skeletal growth and development. For instance, estrogen triggers the closure of growth plates in bones, signaling the end of height increase.

Different organs and tissues have unique growth curves. The brain, for example, develops rapidly in early childhood, reaching near-adult size by age five. Conversely, lymphoid tissue peaks before adolescence and then declines. Subcutaneous fat also follows a distinct pattern, increasing in infancy, decreasing until around age six to eight, and then increasing again.

Disorders in growth can arise from hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, or environmental influences. Understanding these patterns is vital for diagnosing and treating growth-related conditions.1234567

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
8 Britannica Sources
  1. human development - Types and rates of human growth
  2. human development - Different tissues and parts of the body
  3. human nervous system - Postnatal changes
  4. height: Top Questions
  5. human development - Hormones and growth
  6. childhood disease and disorder - Endocrine disorders
  7. childhood disease and disorder - Prematurity and low birth weight
  8. human endocrine system - Growth and development

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