Delayed or Absent Puberty

Description

Delayed or absent puberty is defined as the lack of pubertal signs by age 13 in girls and 14 in boys. Causes include constitutional delay (most common), hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (e.g., Kallmann syndrome), or hypergonadotropic hypogonadism (e.g., Turner or Klinefelter syndrome). Symptoms include absent breast development or testicular enlargement. Evaluation involves history, physical exam, hormonal tests, and imaging. Management depends on the cause—reassurance for constitutional delay or hormone replacement therapy for underlying endocrine disorders. Early diagnosis aids in timely intervention and psychological support.