In malnutrition there is relative sparing of the brain, therefore poor head growth in this context can indicate severe deficiency. Note that it can also be seen in other conditions, including developmental delay and genetic disorders.

• Height and weight: at outpatient visits; on admission to hospital; repeat weight weekly and height monthly for inpatients
  
• Head circumference: in children under 2 years old.
  
• Additional measurements, e.g. mid-arm circumference for muscle stores, and skinfold thickness (traditionally triceps, scapula) for fat stores

BMI needs to be plotted on centile charts for meaningful paediatric interpretation as it changes with age and sex. It is useful for both the underweight and obese.

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