Complications
Sex hormones directly stimulate the growth plate, resulting in the growth spurt. There is also an increase in growth hormone (GH) secretion.[41] Estrogen, either from the ovary or aromatized from testicular testosterone, is the factor that mediates the increased GH response during puberty.[42]
The premature secretion of gonadal steroids in children results in the paradox of tall stature during childhood, due to an accelerated rate of linear growth, with normal or short stature as an adult, due to early fusion of the epiphyseal growth plates.
Many children with precocious puberty experience problems at school due to difficulties that teachers and fellow pupils may have in understanding them. The child and his/her family are frequently apprehensive about stopping suppressive treatment once started. Menstruation at an early age presents practical difficulties.
Girls may be subject to sexual advances with which they are unable to cope, while boys may have erections, which may be an embarrassment. Children with special educational needs as a result of a cerebral lesion or hydrocephalus are particularly vulnerable to these problems. Early maturity correlates to some extent with an earlier onset of sexual behavior.
Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer