Hyperphagic psychosocial short stature - a clinical review

Hyperphagic short stature (HSS) is a specific syndrome of growth failure in association with hyperphagia without a clear underlying aetiology, seen in association with a stressful environment. Environmental stressors at home are not always immediately evident however these children characteristically demonstrate reversal of growth impairment when nurtured away from their stressful environment. This review describes the clinical phenotype, underlying endocrine dysfunction and strategies for the management of this complex condition.