Precocious puberty
Definition
Puberty is the period in life when the body changes rapidly and develops reproductive capability. Precocious puberty is premature development of body characteristics that normally occur during puberty. Puberty normally occurs between 13 and 15 years old in boys, and between 9 and 16 years old in girls.
In girls, precocious puberty is when any of the following develop before 8 years of age:
- Breasts
- Armpit or pubic hair
- Mature external genitalia
- First menstruation
Some evidence suggests that it may be normal if these changes occur as early as 7 years in Caucasian girls and 6 years in African American girls.
In boys, precocious puberty is when any of the following develop before 9 years of age:
- Enlarged testes and penis
- Armpit or pubic hair
- Facial hair, usually first noted on the upper lip
Alternative Names
Pubertas praecox
Causes
The main causes are structural abnormalities in the brain and hormone-secreting tumors.
Exams and Tests
Blood hormone levels, computerized brain scans, and abdominal scans are often used to diagnose the problem.
Treatment
Medications can temporarily suppress sexual hormone secretion. Some tumors require surgical removal.
Possible Complications
Children (of both sexes) with early sexual development are more likely to have psycho-social problems. Children and adolescents generally want to be the same as their peers, and early sexual development can make them appear "different". This can result in self-esteem problems, depression, acting out at school and home, and alcohol and illegal substance abuse.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
See your health care provider if:
- Your child shows signs of precocious puberty
- Any child with early sexual development appears to be having social problems in school
Review Date:
10/27/2005
Reviewed By:
Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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