Precocious puberty: identifying early sexual development

Primary care providers should have the ability to identify normal and abnormal variations of sexual development in children. The incidence of precocious puberty is approximately one child in every 10,000 children in the United States. While etiologies vary, precise differential diagnosis is essential because it will determine the course of treatment required. New forms of therapy using long-acting luteinizing releasing factor agonists are currently being investigated. Developmentally appropriate explanations for affected children regarding the diagnosis and treatment plan are a crucial component of care. Ongoing educational and emotional support for the child and family are essential as they learn to cope with early sexual development.