In some more-acute situations, hospitalization might be indicated. For example, the initial feeding of a severely malnourished child or the rectifying of a profound and long-lasting deficiency can cause complications such as refeeding syndrome or electrolyte imbalances. Programs that are specialized for failure to thrive cases can help when the etiology is multifactorial and complicated by psychological, social, and/or economic problems. These cases require long-term management by multidisciplinary teams, and often take too much time and resources for the regular pediatric office.
Dr. Bishku is an attending physician and vice president of medical affairs at La Rabida Children’s Hospital in Chicago. She had no relevant financial disclosures.