12 Psychosocial short stature: a syndrome with many variables

PSS is at least two syndromes of significant frequency, which often go unrecognized. It occurs in all socioeconomic groups. It is variable in its presentation and often masquerades in its subtle forms as other pathological causes of short stature such as GHD, CDGP, malabsorption and failure to thrive. It is an entity about which we understand little in respect to biochemical pathophysiology, and one which offers a challenge to both clinicians and basic scientists.