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Variations in Sex Characteristics
Austin Johnson1, Lissa Yu2, Ginny L Ryan1
1Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA.
Abstract:
Variations in sex characteristics (VSCs) include conditions where there is atypical chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomic sex. VSCs may be identified when evaluating an infant with atypical genital appearance at birth, a child with a hernia or precocious puberty, an adolescent with delayed puberty or amenorrhea, or an adult with infertility. Care for the patient with a VSC requires a thoughtful approach to history-taking, physical examination, imaging, and hormonal and genetic testing. Consultation with an experienced multidisciplinary team is recommended. Psychological and peer support is essential, with particular care taken to support a patient's gender identity development and autonomy.
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