dwarfism

dwarfism Abnormally short stature, which may be due to a variety of causes. Some forms of dwarfism are hereditary. The Little People of America (LPA) defines dwarfism as a medical or genetic condition that usually results in an adult height of 148 cm (4 feet 10 inches) or shorter, among both men and women. Also known as nanism. Dwarfism is now more correctly called short stature. See also achondroplasia; dwarfism, pituitary; hypochondroplasia; Seckel syndrome.