Central Precocious Puberty (CPP)
.Introduction to Central Precocious Puberty (CPP)
Central Precocious Puberty (CPP) is an early onset of puberty that occurs before the age of 8 in girls and before the age of 9 in boys. CPP is caused by a disruption in the balance of hormones that normally regulate the onset of puberty in the body, creating an early release of hormones which sends puberty into overdrive.
Symptoms of Central Precocious Puberty
The most common signs of Central Precocious Puberty in both boys and girls include:
- Growth spurt
- Acne
- Development of pubic hair
- Breast development in girls
- Voice changes in boys
- Acceleration of bone growth
Treating Central Precocious Puberty
The primary treatment for Central Precocious Puberty involves the use of medications that block the production of certain hormones responsible for the early onset of puberty. Types of medications used to treat CPP include:
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH) agonists – These drugs block the production of hormones that stimulate puberty
- Aromatase inhibitors – These drugs block the production of female sex hormones
- Anti-androgens – These drugs block the production of male sex hormones
Alternatively, surgery may also be used to remove the organs that produce hormones responsible for the early onset of puberty.
Outlook for CPP
If the condition is caught early enough, the outlook for children diagnosed with Central Precocious Puberty is good; however, it is important to remember that the condition can have long-term psychological effects on the child and it is important to have the condition treated as soon as possible. With the help of medications and, in some cases, surgery, most forms of Central Precocious Puberty can be managed and reversed.