Decreased Subcutaneous Fat in Pediatrics — Case | Neonatology | SMLE Q#15623
SMLE Question #15623
Pediatrics
Neonatology
Objective: OBJ-386
Last updated: January 2026
A 26-year-old primigravida delivers a male infant at 34 weeks’ gestation via spontaneous vaginal delivery. The pregnancy was complicated by untreated chronic hypertension and maternal smoking. At birth, the baby’s weight is 1.8 kg, and physical examination shows prominent wrinkles and loose, dry skin over the trunk and extremities with decreased subcutaneous fat. Head circumference corresponds to 34 weeks’ gestation, but weight is below the 10th percentile for gestational age. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of this infant’s findings?
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