1. What is Large for Gestational Age (LGA)?

LGA refers to newborns whose birth weight exceeds the 90th percentile for their gestational age. This classification helps identify infants at risk for various complications including birth injuries, hypoglycemia, and other neonatal issues.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses a simple comparison:

Where:

• Birth Weight — Measured weight of the newborn in kilograms
• 90th Percentile — The weight threshold for the 90th percentile based on gestational age reference charts

Explanation: The calculator compares the actual birth weight against the reference value for the gestational age.

3. Importance of LGA Determination

Details: Identifying LGA infants is crucial as they are at higher risk for birth trauma, hypoglycemia, polycythemia, and later metabolic syndrome. Proper identification allows for appropriate monitoring and early intervention.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the newborn's birth weight in kilograms and the 90th percentile weight for their gestational age (from appropriate reference charts). Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What gestational age charts should I use?
A: Use population-specific growth charts when available (e.g., Fenton charts for preterm infants, WHO charts for term infants).

Q2: Are there different definitions for LGA?
A: Some use >95th percentile or >4000g regardless of gestational age, but >90th percentile is most common.

Q3: What are common causes of LGA?
A: Maternal diabetes, genetic factors, post-term pregnancy, and excessive maternal weight gain are common causes.

Q4: What monitoring do LGA infants need?
A: Typically blood glucose monitoring, observation for birth injuries, and sometimes hematocrit checks.

Q5: Does LGA predict future health problems?
A: LGA infants have higher risk of childhood obesity and metabolic syndrome later in life.