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Understanding disorders of sexual development
Amy C Rothkopf1, Rita Marie John1
1Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, NY.
Insights
Pediatric nurses may encounter infants with genital anomalies, affecting 1 in 300 births. This article guides nurses in managing disorders of sexual development (DSD), emphasizing their role in advocacy and education.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Endocrinology
- Genetics
Background:
- Genital anomalies and disorders of sexual development (DSD) affect approximately 1 in 300 births.
- While rare, ambiguous genitalia can present diagnostic and management challenges for healthcare providers.
- Disorders of sexual development encompass a range of conditions requiring complex care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of the evaluation and management of children with disorders of sexual development.
- To highlight the critical role of pediatric nurses in the care of these patients.
- To emphasize the nurse's function as a child advocate and family educator.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on the diagnosis and management of DSD.
- Discussion of clinical presentation and diagnostic approaches.
- Exploration of treatment options and psychosocial considerations.
Main Results:
- Disorders of sexual development present multifaceted challenges including diagnosis, gender assignment, and long-term outcomes.
- Effective management requires a multidisciplinary approach.
- Nurses play a vital role in supporting families and ensuring comprehensive care.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric nurses are essential in managing children with DSD.
- Nurses facilitate informed decision-making and provide crucial psychosocial support.
- Early and accurate diagnosis, coupled with ongoing support, improves outcomes for children with DSD.
Abstract:
Studies estimate that the incidence of genital anomalies could be as high as 1 in 300 births. While it is rare for an infant to present with truly ambiguous genitalia, it is plausible that the pediatric nurse will encounter a patient with disorders of sexual development in his or her career. Cases of disorders of sexual development are challenging due to complexities of diagnosis, gender assignment, uncertain outcomes, treatment options, and psychosocial stressors. This article discusses the evaluation and management of children with disorders of sexual development and the nurse's role as child advocate and family educator.
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