[Tumour-induced precocious puberty. Discussion of the indications for neurosurgery (author's transl)]

The tumour aetiology of precocious puberty is sometimes clinically evident when accompanied by visual disturbances or by raised intracranial pressure. It may be suspected in the presence of accelerated puberty but should also be feared in cases of apparently idiopathic precocious puberty. In the 13 cases studied, the tumour was studied in the posterior hypothalamus. Ten children underwent surgery (with additional radiotherapy in two cases). Two children died, the follow-up varying at present between 2 and 12 years. Amongst the various tumours, the hamartoma has a special nature by virtue of slow or absence of increase in tumour size. When the clinical and radiological signs suggest this type of tumour, abstention from surgery with close observation of the size of the tumour and medical slowing of puberty is advised.