What is defined as the very early onset and rapid progression of puberty?

The definition of precocious puberty refers to the early onset of secondary sexual characteristics before the age of 9 in boys and before age 8 in girls. This condition is characterized by not only an early start but also a rapid progression through the stages of puberty. It can result from various factors, including hormonal imbalances, tumors, or abnormal functioning of the endocrine system.

Understanding the timing and physiological changes of normal puberty is essential for recognizing precocious puberty. This condition can have significant psychological and physical impacts on the child, as it can lead to complications such as stunted growth or social issues due to being developmentally advanced compared to peers. Recognizing and addressing the condition early can help manage these potential challenges.

In contrast, delayed puberty is characterized by a significant delay in the onset of pubertal development, while puberty block refers to medical interventions used to delay the onset of puberty in cases where it may not be appropriate or beneficial due to underlying conditions. Adrenarche refers specifically to the early phase of puberty associated with increased adrenal gland activity but does not capture the broad progression of secondary sexual characteristics as precocious puberty does.