The clinical evaluation and treatment of female precocious puberty

Abstract

One in 180 American girls has precocious puberty. Accordingly, as a primary care physician, the obstetrician/gynecologist must be knowledgeable about the clinical evaluation and management of this disorder. Pubertal precocity has numerous causes and may be classified broadly as being central or peripheral in etiology. A meticulous history and physical examination, the judicious choice and interpretation of laboratory tests, and the selective use of radiological studies are the cornerstones of the evaluation. The initial approach should focus on identifying life-threatening tumors of the brain, adrenal gland, or ovary. The management goals include reducing the gonadotropin secretion and sex steroid effects and maximizing the eventual adult height. Because the child and her parents are frequently extremely distressed, the treating physician’s sensitivity and reassurance are paramount. The obstetrician/gynecologist, as both primary care physician and consultant, is in an ideal position to investigate, diagnose, and treat female precocious puberty.