Height [posted 7/30/98] Question: What is the difference between a midget, a pygmy, and a dwarf?
Dwarfism is usually a genetic condition related to one of the chondrodystrophies such as achondroplastic dwarfism. This category included individuals with normal body proportions, but with the characteristic ocular or palate changes. There are about 30 different types of congenital dwarfism. A pygmy is an anthropological term referring to a race in Southern Africa, all of whom are of small stature. It is occasionally used to indicate small size, but the accurate use is only in relation to one particular race of individuals. A midget is a loose term referring to an individual -usually in the lower 10% of height for age and not reaching further height. This individuals can be treated with growth hormone if caught in time.
