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adrenarche
Pronunciation: ad-ren-AR-kee
The onset of adrenal androgen production causing body odor and pubic hair growth.
Full Definition
Adrenarche refers to the maturation of the adrenal glands and increased production of androgens (DHEA and DHEA-S), typically occurring around age 6-8 years. This process precedes gonadarche and manifests as body odor, axillary hair growth, and early pubic hair development. Premature adrenarche involves these signs appearing before age 8 in girls or 9 in boys. Clinical evaluation focuses on distinguishing benign premature adrenarche from pathological androgen excess or early puberty.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with gonadarche; adrenarche precedes true puberty.
In Context
- "Signs of adrenarche including body odor were noted in the 7-year-old patient." — Pediatric examination note
- "The timing of adrenarche was appropriate for the patient's age and development." — Growth and development assessment
Don't confuse with
gonadarche
pubarche
premature adrenarche