The development of secondary sexual characteristics before age 8 in girls and 9 in boys. It is uncommon and may be caused by various disorders that can result in production of sex hormones at an abnormally early age. Possible underlying causes include a brain tumour or other brain abnormalities; abnormality of the adrenal glands (for example, congenital adrenal hyperplasia); ovarian cysts, and tumours, or a tumour in the testes. In some cases, no underlying cause can be identified. The hormones may cause a premature growth spurt followed by early fusion of the bones. As a result, affected children may initially be tall but, if untreated, final height is often greatly reduced. The child’s pattern of pubertal development is assessed by a doctor. Blood tests are performed to measure hormone levels. Ultrasound scanning of the ovaries and testes, and CT scanning of the adrenal glands or brain, may also be carried out, depending on the underlying cause suspected. Treatment is of the underlying cause, and hormone drugs may be given to delay puberty and increase final height.
Precocious puberty |
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