Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2026
06:08
A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
'Exaggerated adrenarche' in children presenting with premature adrenarche
S Likitmaskul1, C T Cowell, K Donaghue
1Robert Vines Growth Research Centre, Children Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
Clinical Endocrinology
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Assessing basal steroids in children with premature adrenarche identified 5.7% with 21-hydroxylase deficiency and 9.1% with exaggerated adrenarche. These findings highlight the importance of biochemical evaluation for early adrenal disorders.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Adrenal Steroidogenesis
- Biochemical Diagnostics
Background:
- Premature adrenarche in children often lacks consistent endocrinological abnormalities.
- Previous reports have not established clear links between clinical and biochemical profiles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical and biochemical aspects of children with premature adrenarche without virilization.
- To determine the relationship between clinical/biochemical characteristics and adrenal steroid disorders.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 88 children (72 girls, 16 boys) with premature adrenarche.
- Biochemical analysis included basal and ACTH-stimulated 17OH-progesterone, DHEAS, androstenedione, testosterone, and cortisol.
- Adrenal ultrasound or CT excluded tumors; ACTH stimulation tests identified congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and assessed 3 beta-HSD deficiency.
Main Results:
- The most common symptom was premature pubic hair (93.8%).
- Five patients (5.7%) were diagnosed with 21-hydroxylase deficiency CAH.
- Eight patients (9.1%) exhibited 'exaggerated adrenarche' (high DHEAS), with accelerated bone age and elevated androgens, but no clear clinical differences.
- No significant correlation found between adrenal steroids and clinical features, except for bone age acceleration.
Conclusions:
- Basal steroid assessment is valuable, identifying 5.7% with 21-hydroxylase deficiency and 9.1% with 'exaggerated adrenarche'.
- Accelerated bone age is linked to adrenal steroid levels.
- Further research is needed to evaluate the link between 'exaggerated adrenarche' and future ovarian hyperandrogenism.
Related Concept Videos
01:31Hormones of the Adrenal Glands
Adrenal hormones play a pivotal role in maintaining the body's electrolyte balance and orchestrating responses to stress, showcasing the intricate functions of the adrenal cortex and medulla.
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and corticosterone...
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and corticosterone...
01:27Adrenal Gland Disorders
Adrenal gland disorders manifest when the production of adrenal hormones deviates from the norm, resulting in either excessive or insufficient concentrations.
Adrenal insufficiency, characterized by insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production, leads to conditions like Addison's disease. This disorder, affecting the adrenal cortex, exhibits symptoms such as skin bronzing, dehydration, low blood pressure, fatigue, and weight loss. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic ailment causing...
Adrenal insufficiency, characterized by insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production, leads to conditions like Addison's disease. This disorder, affecting the adrenal cortex, exhibits symptoms such as skin bronzing, dehydration, low blood pressure, fatigue, and weight loss. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic ailment causing...
01:27Signs of Puberty
Puberty is a critical phase, typically beginning between the ages of 8 and 13 in girls and 9 and 14 in boys, though timing can vary based on genetics, environmental factors, and overall health. This period is characterized by the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the attainment of reproductive potential. Endocrine changes underpin puberty, with hormonal surges of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) instigated by Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH)...
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:26Cushing Syndrome I: Introduction
Cushing syndrome refers to the collection of clinical manifestations that arise when tissues are exposed to excessive amounts of cortisol or cortisol-like medications over an extended period. Cortisol, a glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal cortex, regulates metabolism, immune responses, and the body’s adaptation to stress. When its concentration remains chronically elevated, these physiological pathways become dysregulated, resulting in the characteristic features of the syndrome.Exogenous...
01:19Cushing Syndrome II: Pathophysiology
Cortisol production is normally governed by the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, which maintains hormonal balance through tightly regulated feedback mechanisms. Disruption of this regulatory system is central to the development of Cushing syndrome, whether the excess cortisol originates from external medications or internal pathology. Persistent cortisol elevation alters metabolism, immune function, and endocrine signaling, producing the characteristic clinical features of the...