[Low birth weight infants (less than 2500g)--common problems for obstetricians and pediatricians].

Low birth weight infants present an increased risk of developing certain disorders later in life. They include a higher perinatal mortality, perinatal asphyxia, developmental disorders, hypertension and diabetes type 2. Low birth weight infants constitute about 10% of all newborn children. Nonetheless they necessitate special guidance. The issues presented in this article prove that problems arise during pregnancy and augment after birth. Therefore a close cooperation is needed among obstetricians and paediatricians, especially endocrinologists. An early assessment of LBW infants will enable to make correct diagnosis and initiate therapy. It will surely improve children's' development and health in the long run and furthermore will decrease the morbidity from cardiovascular diseases in later life.