precocious puberty
The onset of secondary sexual characteristics before age 8 in girls or age 9 in boys, requiring medical evaluation.
Full Definition
Precocious puberty is defined as the development of secondary sexual characteristics before the expected age range: before 8 years in girls and before 9 years in boys. This condition can be classified as central (gonadotropin-dependent) or peripheral (gonadotropin-independent) based on whether the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is activated. Central precocious puberty is more common and often idiopathic, particularly in girls. Peripheral precocious puberty may indicate underlying pathology such as tumors or genetic disorders. Early puberty can have significant physical and psychological consequences, including compromised final adult height, increased risk of behavioral problems, and psychosocial challenges. Treatment may involve GnRH agonist therapy to suppress pubertal progression.
Usage
Usage note: Age cutoffs may vary slightly in literature; always specify the criteria used in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The 7-year-old girl was referred for evaluation of precocious puberty following breast development." — Referral letter
- "Central precocious puberty was confirmed by elevated LH response to GnRH stimulation testing." — Laboratory report