precocious puberty
The onset of pubertal development before age 8 in girls or age 9 in boys, requiring medical evaluation.
Full Definition
Precocious puberty is defined as the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics before the expected age ranges and affects approximately 1 in 5,000 children. Central precocious puberty results from early activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, while peripheral precocious puberty involves hormone production independent of central control. Early puberty can lead to short adult stature due to premature growth plate closure and may cause psychological distress. Treatment options include GnRH agonist therapy to suppress pubertal progression and preserve adult height potential.
Usage
Usage note: Not capitalized unless beginning a sentence. Distinguish between central and peripheral types in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The 7-year-old girl presented with breast development consistent with precocious puberty." — Endocrine referral
- "Central precocious puberty was confirmed by pubertal LH response to GnRH stimulation testing." — Diagnostic workup note