Damage to the brain or central nervous system may cause feeding difficulties in an infant that result in delayed growth. Abnormalities in the cardiac and respiratory systems can result in disturbed mechanisms to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the body. Children with anemia or other blood disorders may have growth delay. Abnormalities in the gastrointestinal system may result in malabsorption or absence of digestive enzymes resulting in inadequate nutrition. Psychological and social causes may include emotional deprivation as a result of parental withdrawal, rejection, or hostility.
Economic factors can affect nutrition, living conditions, and parental attitudes.
Environmental factors may include exposure to infections, parasites, or toxins . Sometimes the cause is undetermined. Risk factors for failure to thrive are related to the causes and may include underlying undiagnosed diseases, poverty, negative emotional environments, and crowded or unsanitary living conditions. A physical examination is done, including height, weight, and body proportions. A detailed history is taken, including prenatal, birth, neonatal, psychosocial and family information.