PSM & Precocious Puberty

Premature Sexual Maturation (PSM) is a rare condition in which the gonads, adrenal or other glands are affected leading to premature sexual maturation. In such cases the child grows at a faster rate than normal and develops secondary sexual characteristics (such as pubic hair, penile enlargement or breast development) at an inappropriately early age. It is important to distinguish this from precocious puberty, whereby normal puberty occurs but at an age earlier than 8 years in a girl and 9 years in a boy. There is a 20% possibility that it will occur before school entry.

Children with PSM, including precocious puberty, may be very large for their age but as growth stops early, the final adult height can be relatively short. Premature sexual maturation always requires investigation and assessment by a growth specialist. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause.