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Weight Loss, Pediatric

Kendall Purcell, MD, MPH Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Documented decrease in weight from a previous measurement. Can be acute or chronic, intentional or unintentional. Unintentional weight loss is an unusual and worrisome symptom, regar...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

Determine that weight loss is real and not due to scale error, different scales, different technique (e.g., clothed vs. unclothed, diaper vs. no diaper). 
  • Question: Child’s diet?

  • Signif...

TREATMENT

  • Establish if the weight loss is voluntary or involuntary.

  • Determine the acuity or chronicity and severity of weight loss, and the need for hospitalization versus close, serial outpatient foll...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Flaherman VJ, Schaefer EW, Kuzniewicz MW, et al. Early weight loss nomograms for exclusively breastfed newborns. Pediatrics.  2015;135(1):e16–e23. [View Abstract on OvidInsight...

CODES

ICD9

  • 783.21 Loss of weight

  • 530.81 Esophageal reflux

  • 263.9 Unspecified protein-calorie malnutrition

  • 277.9 Unspecified disorder of metabolism

ICD10

  • R63.4 Abnormal weight loss

  • K21.9 Gastro-esophageal refl...

FAQ

  • Q: How common is weight loss in the first 2 weeks of life?

  • A: Formula-fed babies may lose up to 7% of birth weight and breastfed newborns up to 10% before regaining their birth weight by 2 weeks of...

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