sexual maturity rating
Also written as: SMR — Sexual Maturity Rating
An alternative term for Tanner staging used to assess pubertal development in adolescents.
Full Definition
Sexual Maturity Rating (SMR) is synonymous with Tanner staging and provides a standardized method for assessing pubertal development in both males and females. The rating system uses five stages to evaluate secondary sexual characteristics including breast development in females, genital development in males, and pubic hair growth in both sexes. SMR terminology may be preferred in some clinical settings as it focuses on the developmental assessment rather than the eponymous naming convention.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize when used as a proper noun. SMR is an acceptable abbreviation in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The physical exam documented Sexual Maturity Rating stage 4 for breast development." — Adolescent female examination
- "Sexual maturity rating should be assessed annually during routine adolescent care." — Clinical guideline