Large for gestational age (patient information)

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Editor-in-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S.,M.D. [mailto:mgibson@perfuse.org] Phone:617-632-7753; Associate Editor(s)-In-Chief: Lakshmi Gopalakrishnan, M.B.B.S.

Overview
Large for gestational age (LGA) means that a fetus or infant is larger or more developed than normal for the baby's gestational age.

What are the symptoms of Large for gestational age?

 * Gestational age is a measure of the growth and development of the fetus in the uterus and the infant after birth.


 * LGA refers to a fetus or infant who is larger than expected for the age and gender or with a birth weight above the 90th percentile.

What causes Large for gestational age?
Common causes of a fetus or infant who is large for gestational age are:
 * Gestational diabetes
 * Prolonged pregnancy

Diagnosis
The measurement is based on the estimated gestational age of the fetus or infant, compared with what is considered normal height, weight, head size, and developmental level for a fetus or infant of the same age and gender.

Where to find medical care for Large for gestational age?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Large for gestational age

Possible complications
A baby that is large for gestational age has a higher risk of birth injury and complications of low blood sugar after delivery.

Source
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002248.htm