Constitutional delay in growth and puberty is when children experience delayed puberty compared to their peers associated with a delay in the pubertal growth spurt (‘late bloomers’). These children have short stature relative to their parents’ heights, and a delayed bone age. Once puberty begins, it progresses as expected, followed by the pubertal growth spurt. These children will typically have an adult height that is within range of what is expected for their genetic potential.

Most common symptoms include normal growth rate with short stature and delayed puberty and the pubertal growth spurt with a delayed bone age.

Your doctor will review your child’s health history, family history and physical exam, and may perform certain tests, including an x-ray of your child’s hand and wrist (bone age), to establish a diagnosis of constitutional delay in growth and puberty.