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Precocious Puberty
Alternate Names : Pubertas Praecox
Definition
Precocious puberty is premature development of body characteristics that normally occur during puberty. (Puberty is the period in life when the body changes rapidly and develops reproductive capability). Puberty normally occurs between 13 and 15 years old in boys, and between 9 and 16 years old in girls.
In girls, precocious puberty is when any of the following develop before 8 years of age:
- Breasts
- Armpit or pubic hair
- Mature external genitalia
- First menstruation
Some evidence suggests that it may be normal if these changes occur as early as 7 years in Caucasian girls and 6 years in African American girls.
In boys, precocious puberty is when any of the following develop before 9 years of age:
- Enlarged testes and penis
- Armpit or pubic hair
- Facial hair, usually first noted on the upper lip
Pictures & Images
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
The main causes are structural abnormalities in the brain and hormone-secreting tumors.
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- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD - Pediatric)
- Memory Loss
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• Definition
• Precocious Puberty Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Precocious Puberty Diagnosis & Tests
• Precocious Puberty Treatment
• Precocious Puberty Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Review Date : 11/23/2003
Reviewed By : John Goldenring, M.D., MPH, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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