The occurrence of early pubic hair often causes concern to both families and physicians. Whereas, in the majority of cases, this is only a normal variant called premature adrenarche, this condition may also be related to potentially serious diseases, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumors, or gonadal tumors, which must be correctly diagnosed and managed appropriately.
What is already known about the topic ?
The early development of pubic hair without other signs of virilization is often mistaken for central precocious puberty.
What does this article bring up for us?
This article provides a framework to guide physicians in the diagnostic approach when confronted with the occurrence of early pubic hair in children.
Key Words
Pubarche, premature adrenarche, virilization, puberty