Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CPHON Practice Questions and Study Guide

Short stature is a prominent symptom associated with dyskeratosis congenita (DKC), a genetic disorder characterized by a failure in the normal functioning of the telomeres, which are protective caps on the ends of chromosomes. This deficiency can lead to various clinical manifestations, one of which is growth retardation.

Children with DKC frequently exhibit signs of short stature as a result of growth hormone deficiency, problems with bone growth, or other underlying factors related to the disorder's impact on the body’s ability to develop normally. It is important to recognize that growth issues in conditions like DKC can stem from the disorder’s effects on hematopoiesis and the immune system, which contribute to overall health and growth patterns in affected individuals.

The other symptoms listed, while they may relate to different medical conditions, do not typically occur with DKC. Therefore, recognizing short stature as a key symptom of DKC emphasizes the disorder's impact on pediatric patients and underscores the need for healthcare professionals to monitor growth closely in this population.