Disorders of puberty: a practical imaging approach

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Reproductive Medicine
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Abnormal pubertal development in children causes significant parental anxiety and diagnostic complexity for pediatricians.
• Disorders of pubertal development encompass isosexual and heterosexual precocious puberty, as well as delayed development in both females and males.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of female and male disturbances in pubertal development.
• To outline a tailored algorithmic approach to the diagnostic workup, integrating clinical, laboratory, and imaging data.
• To emphasize the role of specific imaging modalities in managing these complex cases.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on pubertal development disorders.
• Synthesis of historical, physical examination, and laboratory findings.
• Emphasis on the integration of medical imaging, including bone-age determination, ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Main Results:

• The diagnostic process relies on a multidisciplinary approach combining clinical assessment and targeted investigations.
• An algorithmic strategy aids in the efficient and accurate diagnosis of various pubertal disorders.
• Specific imaging techniques are crucial for characterizing the underlying causes of pubertal abnormalities.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of abnormal pubertal development necessitates a systematic approach integrating clinical expertise with advanced diagnostic tools.
• Bone-age, ultrasonography, and MRI are key imaging modalities in the workup of precocious and delayed puberty.
• This review provides a framework for pediatricians to navigate the complexities of pubertal disorders.