[Virilization caused by methandrostenolone-containing cream in 2 prepubertal girls]

Two prepubertal girls were treated with Dianabol cream by their family physicians during 6 and 8 months because of an anal exzema. In both of them, growth velocity and bone maturation were accelerated, and there was hypertrophy of the clitoris and deepening of the voice. In one girl, all symptoms with the exception of the deep voice had disappeared six years after the discontinuation of treatment. In the other girl, final evaluation is not yet possible. The two observations show that androgens and anabolic steroids may have a marked systemic action if applied percutaneously. Treatment with these compounds is indicated very rarely in children and should be restricted to pediatric endocrinologists.