Dwarfism is usually the result of a genetic mutation. But having a gene or genes responsible for dwarfism can occur in a couple of ways. In some cases, it can happen spontaneously. You may not be born with mutated genes inherited from a parent. Instead, a mutation of your genes happens on its own — usually without a cause doctors can discover.

Some conditions that cause dwarfism disrupt the hormones that enable the body to grow. Dwarfism can also be due to metabolic disorders or malnourishment. A group of conditions called skeletal dysplasias is the most common cause of dwarfism. Skeletal dysplasias cause the bones to grow abnormally, resulting in a small stature.

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD), also known as dwarfism or pituitary dwarfism, is a condition caused by insufficient amounts of growth hormone in the body. Children with GHD have abnormally short stature with normal body proportions. GHD can be present at birth (congenital) or develop later (acquired).

Causes of dwarfism include: Familial: If parents and other family members are short, it can be normal for their child to be short. Genetic mutation: Changes to a person’s DNA. Growth hormone deficiency: The brain doesn’t make enough of the hormone that causes bones to grow.