Intermediate
Technical
IVT
pubertal delay
Absence of secondary sexual characteristics by age 13 in girls or 14 in boys.
Full Definition
Pubertal delay refers to the absence of secondary sexual characteristics by age 13 in girls or 14 in boys, or failure to complete puberty within 4-5 years of onset. This condition may be constitutional (familial pattern), pathological (hormonal disorders), or related to chronic illness. Clinical evaluation includes growth assessment, bone age determination, and hormonal studies to distinguish between normal variation and underlying pathology.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'constitutional delay' which implies normal variation.
In Context
- "The patient presented with pubertal delay and required endocrinological evaluation." — Clinical assessment note
- "Family history of pubertal delay suggested a constitutional pattern rather than pathological cause." — Medical history documentation
Also known as
delayed puberty
Contrasted with
precocious puberty
Don't confuse with
constitutional delay
hypogonadism