# Clinical Features of Low Birth Weight Baby A low birth weight (LBW) baby is one whose birth weight is less than 2,500 grams, irrespective of the gestational age at which the baby is born. Low birth weight may occur because the baby is born prematurely, because fetal growth has been restricted, or due to a combination of both conditions. LBW babies are more vulnerable to complications because their body systems may not be sufficiently mature and their nutritional and energy reserves are limited. Careful clinical assessment immediately after birth and during the neonatal period is therefore essential. One of the most obvious clinical features is low body weight. The baby weighs less than 2,500 grams at birth. In very low birth weight babies, the weight is below 1,500 grams, while extremely low birth weight refers to a birth weight below 1,000 grams. The baby may appear small in comparison with a normal-weight newborn. The body may be thin, and the amount of subcutaneous fat is reduced. The general appearance of an LBW baby varies according to whether the baby is premature or small for gestational age. Premature babies usually have immature physical features, whereas growth-restricted babies may have a relatively mature appearance but are thin and wasted. The baby may have a disproportionately large head compared with the small body. The skin may appear loose and wrinkled because of inadequate subcutaneous fat. Skin changes are common. The skin of a premature LBW baby is often thin, delicate, shiny and reddish in appearance. Blood vessels may be clearly visible through the skin. The skin may be covered by fine hair called lanugo. Vernix caseosa may also be present depending on the gestational