Gonadotropin-independent Precocious Puberty Research Articles

Precocious Puberty: Types, Pathogenesis and Updated Management.

Precocious puberty (PP) means the appearance of secondary sexual characters before the age of eight years in girls and nine years in boys. Puberty is indicated in girls by the enlargement of the breasts (thelarche) in girls and in boys by the enlargement of the testes in either volume or length (testicular volume = 4 mL, testicular length = 25 mm, or both). Two types of PP are recognized - namely central PP (CPP) and peripheral PP (PPP). This paper aims to describe the clinical findings and laboratory workup of PP and to illustrate the new trends in the management of precocious sexual maturation. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-independent type (PPP) refers to the development of early pubertal maturation not related to the central activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. It is classified into genetic or acquired disorders. The most common forms of congenital or genetic causes involve McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS), familial male-limited PP, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. The acquired causes include exogenous exposure to androgens, functioning tumors or cysts, and the pseudo-PP of profound primary hypothyroidism. On the other hand, CPP is the most common and it is a gonadotropin-dependent form. It is due to premature maturation of the HPG axis. CPP may occur as genetic alterations, such asMKRN3, DLK1, or KISS1;as a part of mutations in theepigenetic factors that regulate the HPG axis, such as Lin28b and let-7; or as a part of syndromes, central lesions such as hypothalamic hamartoma, and others. A full, detailed history and physical examination should be taken. Furthermore, several investigations should be conducted for both types of PP, including the estimation of serum gonadotropins such as luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones and sex steroids, in addition to a radiographic workup and thyroid function tests. Treatment depends on the type of PP: Long-acting GnRHa, either intramuscularly or implanted, is the norm of care for CPP management, while in PPP, especially in congenital adrenal hyperplasia, the goal of management is to suppress adrenal androgen secretion by glucocorticoids. In addition, anastrozole and letrozole - third-generation aromatase inhibitors - are more potent for MAS.

A toddler with testosterone: where did it come from?

Precocious development of secondary sexual characters not involving pulsatile gonadotropin secretion is known as gonadotropin independent precocious puberty or peripheral precocious puberty (PPP). This form of sexual precocity in males can occur due to gonadal, adrenal, or other testosterone secreting tumors (teratomas, hepatomas, and choriocarcinomas), untreated congenital adrenal hyperplasia, testotoxicosis, and familial male limited precocious puberty. We report a case of a 2-year-old boy with PPP caused due to hepatoblastoma. Complete surgical resection of the tumor was done, and the child received cisplatin chemotherapy.

Clinical Management and Therapy of Precocious Puberty in the Sapienza University Pediatrics Hospital of Rome, Italy.

Puberty identifies the transition from childhood to adulthood. Precocious puberty is the onset of signs of pubertal development before age eight in girls and before age nine in boys, it has an incidence of 1/5000-1/10,000 with an F:M ratio ranging from 3:1 to 20:1. Precocious puberty can be divided into central, also known as gonadotropin-dependent precocious puberty or true precocious puberty, and peripheral, also recognized as gonadotropin-independent precocious puberty or precocious pseudopuberty. Thus, the main aim of this narrative report is to describe the standard clinical management and therapy of precocious puberty according to the experience and expertise of pediatricians and pediatric endocrinologists at Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. In the suspicion of early sexual maturation, it is important to collect information regarding the age of onset, the speed of maturation of secondary sexual features, exposure to exogenous sex steroids and the presence of neurological symptoms. The objective examination, in addition to the evaluation of secondary sexual characteristics, must also include the evaluation of auxological parameters. Initial laboratory investigations should include serum gonadotropin levels (LH and FSH) and serum levels of the sex steroids. Brain MRI should be performed as indicated by the 2009 Consensus Statement in all boys regardless of chronological age and in all girls with onset of pubertal signs before 6 years of age. The gold standard in the treatment of central precocious puberty is represented by GnRH analogs, whereas, as far as peripheral forms are concerned, the triggering cause must be identified and treated. At the moment there are no reliable data establishing the criteria for discontinuation of GnRH analog therapy. However, numerous pieces of evidence suggest that the therapy should be suspended at the physiological age at which puberty occurs.

THU205 A Case Of Infant With Familial-Male Limited Precocious Puberty (FMPP) Inherited From Father Due To An Activating Mutation Of The Luteinizing Hormone/Chorionic Gonadotropin Receptor Gene

Abstract Disclosure: H. Yoo: None. J. Ha: None. M. Jung: None. Y. Choi: None. E. Yoo: None. We present an extremely rare case of FMPP with an activating mutation of the LHCGR gene in a Korean infant. A 16-month-old-boy was brought to the out-patient clinic with complaints of pubic hair, acne and rapid growth acceleration. His father had become aware of the symptoms 4 month before. His grandfather and father had a family history of precocious puberty and profound short stature (Height of grandfather and father: 148 cm and 158 cm respectively). At physical examination, his height was 83 cm (+1.2 SDS) and his weight was 14.3 kg (+2.8 SDS). The testicular volume was 2 mL and pubic hair was appropriate for Tanner stage 2. Stretched penile length was 7 cm (>2 SDS). He did not have any café au lait spots or hyperpigmentation. His bone age was significantly advanced to that of a 4 year old. Laboratory findings showed abnormally elevated serum testosterone (5.74 ng/mL) and slightly elevated α-fetoprotein (14.1 ng/ml; reference 0-10 ng/mL) with suppressed LH level (<0.07 mIU/mL). Serum levels of β-human chorionic gonadotropin, cortisol, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate were within normal range. A gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulation test revealed a prepubertal response(peak LH 0.52). Brain magnetic resonance imaging study was reported to be normal. Ultrasound of the scrotum and adrenal gland were both normal. Due to the patient’s classic presentation and his family history of male-limited precocious puberty, a genetic analysis for LHCGR gene was performed. Molecular genetic analysis identified a pathogenic variant of LHCGR (c.1730 C>T, p.Thr577Ileu), which was previously reported in a FMPP patient. His father and paternal grand father also carry the same mutation. Anti-androgen treatment with bicalutamide (25mg/day) and aromatase inhibition with anastrozole (1mg/day) were initiated. After treatment, there was improvement in pubertal progression, accelerated growth velocity and rate of skeletal maturation without any specific side effects. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023

Further progress of the etiology,diagnosis and treatment of peripheral precocious puberty

Peripheral precocious puberty(PPP),also known as puberty independent from hypothalamic-pituitary axis activation,is stimulated by hormones from other sources, with only partial sexual characteristics development but without mature sexual function. The secondary sexual characteristics development occurs before 7.5 years of age in girls and before 9 years of age in boys. Clinical manifestations are diverse, and PPP has varied etiology including congenital adrenal hyperplasia, McCune-Albright syndrome, ovarian cyst, adrenal tumor, ovarian tumor, testicular tumor, human chorionic gonadotropin producing tumor, familial male precocious puberty, aromatase excess syndrome, and environmental estrogen. Early identification of etiology, accurate differential diagnosis and prenatal gene screening play a significant role in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

Klinefelter syndrome in combination with familial male-limited precocious puberty (clinical case)

The article presents the results of a literature review on Klinefelter syndrome combined with familial male-limited precocious puberty and describes a clinical case. Klinefelter syndrome is a form of male hypogonadism, characterized by the presence of an extra X chromosome, small testes, seminiferous tubule dysgenesis, high levels of gonadotropin, low serum testosterone level, underdeveloped secondary sex characteristics and male infertility. Klinefelter syndrome is characterized by extreme heterogeneity of clinical and genetic manifestations. The prevalence of Klinefelter syndrome is 0.1 to 0.2% in male newborns and increases to 3 to 4% among infertile men and 10 to 12% in patients with azoospermia. Currently, it is not known how to treat patients with mild Klinefelter syndrome that remains undiagnosed or is combined with other genetic pathology, including gonadotropin-independent precocious puberty. This disease is caused by an autosomal dominant inherited activating pathogenic variant of the gene encoding the luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor, which belongs to the family of G protein-coupled receptors. In men, activation of pathogenic variants of this gene causes excessive secretion of testosterone, which triggers early peripheral (precocious) puberty. Treatment recommendations have been developed in part mainly because of the limited number of reported cases, small sample sizes, and short-term outcomes. The presented clinical case is important in view of the possible risk of developing malignant testicular neoplasms in patients with precocious puberty. Therefore, long-term follow-up during and after puberty is recommended. It is of great importance to take into account the aforementioned clinical manifestations in order to made early diagnosis of this syndrome, offer timely genetic counseling to parents, and rehabilitate these patients physically, psychically and socially.

Testolactone: The Rise and Fall of a Drug

Testolactone is structurally related to testosterone and belongs to the first generation of aromatase inhibitors. It is a non-selective irreversible aromatase enzyme inhibitor that was one of the first steroids used in the clinical treatment of breast cancer. The use of testolactone in the treatment of breast cancer started in 1970, although its ability to inhibit aromatase was not discovered until 1975. Its use was primarily based on the inhibition of estrogen synthesis, which was applied in the treatment of estrogen-dependent breast cancers, in the treatment of disorders of sex steroid excess, familial male-limited precocious puberty, or in the treatment of patients with McCune–Albright syndrome, etc. The weak inhibitory activity of testolactone, and the moderate clinical response, prevented its widespread use, which ultimately resulted in withdrawal from the drug market in 2008. This review paper is dedicated to testolactone, its rise in the second half of the 20th century, and its fall in the first decade of the 21st century. Regardless of withdrawal from the market, for many years testolactone was a drug that improved the quality of life of patients facing one of the most serious diseases today, and for this reason, this paper describes medicinal application, synthesis, and modifications of testolactone.

Long-Term Treatment With Letrozole in a Boy With Familial Male-Limited Precocious Puberty.

BackgroundThe long-term follow-up in children with familial male-limited precocious puberty (FMPP) who were treated with letrozole, triptorelin, and spironolactone is limited, especially considering the efficiency and safety.ObjectiveWe describe the clinical characteristics and long-term treatment with letrozole on adult height of a boy diagnosed with FMPP, confirmed by analysis of the LHCGR gene.MethodsPhysical examinations, bone age (BA), testosterone, and gonadotropin levels were measured as well as gene sequencing of the proband and parents.ResultsThe boy was referred to the hospital at 3.1 years of age due to peripheral precocious puberty. His height was 116.8cm (+5.1SD) and BA was 9 years. Genetic analysis revealed a patrilineal c.1703C>T.(p.Ala568Val) mutation of the LHCGR gene. After treating with letrozole for 1.6 years, the height according to BA went from -3.52SD to -2.82SD. Triptorelin was added at age 4.7 years based on both the evidence of central puberty and his growth velocity according to BA. During the 6.9 years of treatment, he had a height gain of 51.9cm, and BA increased 5.2 years. At age 10, his present height is 168.7cm (0.05SD) and BA is 14.7 years. No adverse effects of treatment were encountered.ConclusionA patrilineal mutation of the LHCGR gene has been identified in a boy with FMPP. His height is 168.7cm (-0.05SD) which is approaching his adult height after long-term treatment with letrozole, triptorelin, and spironolactone.

A rare case of gonadotropin independent precocious puberty in young child

Searchable abstracts of presentations at key conferences in endocrinology ISSN 1470-3947 (print) | ISSN 1479-6848 (online)

Abstract #1175512: A Case of McCune Albright Syndrome with Multiple Associated Endocrinopathies

McCune-Albright Syndrome (MAS) is a rare genetic disorder classically defined by a triad of fibrous dysplasia of bone, café-au-lait spots, and precocious puberty. The underlying pathophysiology of this disorder is an activating somatic mutation of GNAS gene at 20q13 – which codes for the alpha subunit of the Gs protein. In addition to gonadotropin independent precocious puberty, MAS is associated with other endocrinopathies including hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, growth hormone excess, and Cushing syndrome.

Abstract 179: “Chrousos syndrome” – “A rare case OF gonadotropin independent precocious puberty with hypokalemic hypertension” in a male child

Abstract 179: “Chrousos syndrome” – “A rare case OF gonadotropin independent precocious puberty with hypokalemic hypertension” in a male child

Homozygous SHBG Variant (rs6258) Linked to Gonadotropin-Independent Precocious Puberty in a Young Girl

Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in the blood is a major determinant of bioactivity for key sex steroids such as testosterone and estradiol. Low serum levels of SHBG have been associated with obesity, polycystic ovaries, and metabolic syndrome, and other states associated with hyperandrogenemia. A 9-year, 6-month-old girl presented with a history of peripheral precocious puberty and aggressive behavior. The patient's SHBG level was remarkably low for her age, at less than 5 nmol/L (reference range for a girl with a bone age of 10 years, 73 nmol/L [SEM = 10]) [1]. On genetic and protein analysis, the patient was found to have a homozygous missense potentially pathogenic variant in the SHBG gene (c.554C>T, p.P185L); her parents were asymptomatic heterozygote carriers. Laboratory investigations supported the possible involvement of this genetic alteration in the patient's phenotype. Various analyses of this variant support its pathogenicity, although the exact mechanism remains unclear. In conclusion, we present a genetic SHBG variant in the homozygote state that may have been associated with gonadotropin-independent precocious puberty in a young girl.

Precocious puberty.

Precocious puberty (PP) is a common reason for referral to pediatric endocrinology clinics, with a strong female predominance. PP is a broad term encompassing benign variants of normal development, gonadotropin-dependent precious puberty (GDPP), and gonadotropin-independent precocious puberty (GIPP). This article reviews the definitions, physiology, clinical presentation, evaluation and treatment of these conditions.

Constitutive LH receptor activity impairs NO-mediated penile smooth muscle relaxation.

Timely activation of the luteinizing hormone receptor (LHCGR) is critical for fertility. Activating mutations in LHCGR cause familial male-limited precocious puberty (FMPP) due to premature synthesis of testosterone. A mouse model of FMPP (KiLHRD582G), expressing a constitutively activating mutation in LHCGR, was previously developed in our laboratory. KiLHRD582G mice became progressively infertile due to sexual dysfunction and exhibited smooth muscle loss and chondrocyte accumulation in the penis. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that KiLHRD582G mice had erectile dysfunction due to impaired smooth muscle function. Apomorphine-induced erection studies determined that KiLHRD582G mice had erectile dysfunction. Penile smooth muscle and endothelial function were assessed using penile cavernosal strips. Penile endothelial cell content was not changed in KiLHRD582G mice. The maximal relaxation response to acetylcholine and the nitric oxide donor, sodium nitroprusside, was significantly reduced in KiLHRD582G mice indicating an impairment in the nitric oxide (NO)-mediated signaling. Cyclic GMP (cGMP) levels were significantly reduced in KiLHRD582G mice in response to acetylcholine, sodium nitroprusside and the soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator, BAY 41-2272. Expression of NOS1, NOS3 and PKRG1 were unchanged. The Rho-kinase signaling pathway for smooth muscle contraction was not altered. Together, these data indicate that KiLHRD582G mice have erectile dysfunction due to impaired NO-mediated activation of soluble guanylate cyclase resulting in decreased levels of cGMP and penile smooth muscle relaxation. These studies in the KiLHRD582G mice demonstrate that activating mutations in the mouse LHCGR cause erectile dysfunction due to impairment of the NO-mediated signaling pathway in the penile smooth muscle.

Reconsideration of the third-generation non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors in pediatrics

Aromatase is the rate-limiting enzyme in estrogen biosynthesis. The third generation aromatase inhibitors (AIs), represented by letrozoleand and anastrozole, can combine with aromatase, effectively reducing the estrogen level in the body. Because of its high efficiency, selectivity and reversibility, it has been used in the treatment of McCune-Albright syndrome, familial male-limited precocious puberty, gynecomastia, and adolescent boy with short stature. The good efficacy and safety of AIs have been observed. However, so far the drug instructions of AIs usually do not show indications for children; there are risks of adverse reactions involving liver and kidney function, lipid metabolism, hyperandrogenemia and bone metabolism; especially the long-term effects on reproductive system and bone metabolism are still not clear. Therefore, it is necessary to prescribe it carefully and follow up closely. It was not recommended that AIs be routinely used to improve adult height of adolescent boy with short stature. And more clinical evidences are needed for the safety and effectiveness of AIs prescribed in pediatrics.

SUN-LB15 A Case of Familial Male-Limited Precocious Puberty With a Novel Mutation

Introduction:Familial Male-Limited Precocious Puberty (FMPP), also known as testotoxicosis, is a rare cause of precocious puberty in males. It is caused by a mutation in the luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) gene, resulting in the receptor to be constitutively activated. This results in precocious puberty in males with rapid skeletal maturation and compromised final adult height if not treated. A combination on anti-androgens and aromatase inhibitors are the mainstay of treatment.Case:A 16-month-old male presented to our clinic due to concerns of precocious puberty. Pubic hair was noted at 6 months of age along with rapid growth acceleration. There was no known exposure to testosterone and no family history of early puberty or subnormal adult height. Upon presentation, his height was over the 99th percentile while his target height is at the 50th percentile. Physical examination revealed prepubertal testes with pubic hair at Tanner stage II. A bone age was reported as 12-18 months at a chronologic age of 12 months. Initial lab evaluation revealed normal serum levels of 17 OHP, androstenedione and DHEA-S with a slightly elevated serum LH (0.7mIU/ml), and very elevated serum testosterone level (289ng/dl). Leuprolide and ACTH stimulation tests as well as MRI of the abdomen and pelvis were normal. Serum levels of AFP, β-hCG and IGF-1 were also normal. Bone age advanced to 6 years at a chronological age of 21 months and to 8 years by 26 months of age. At 26 months of age, his stretched penile length measured 11cm. LH receptor testing was obtained, which revealed a novel heterozygous missense mutation in the LHCGR gene (c.1733A>C; p.Asp.578Ala). The mutation was reported to be a variant of unknown significance though likely in the pathological end of the spectrum by variant analysis with SIFT and PolyPhen. He was started on treatment with anastrozole 1 mg daily and bicalutamide 25 mg daily at 2 and 9/12 years of age. Pubertal progression, linear growth and skeletal maturation slowed down with treatment. His bone age remained stable at 13 years from the age of 2 and 10/12 years to 4 years old. Pubertal stage and stretched penile length have also remained stable on treatment. He is tolerating treatment well.Conclusion:We report a novel mutation in the LHCGR gene causing FMPP in a 6-month-old male who is responding very well to a combination of bicalutamide and anastrazole with marked decrease in growth velocity, pubertal progression and skeletal advancement.

SAT-227 Long-Term Outcomes of Two Siblings with X-Linked Congenital Adrenal Hypoplasia Due to a Mutation in NR0B1 (DAX1) Gene: Reproductive and Neuropsychiatric Aspects

Background: X-linked congenital adrenal hypoplasia (CAH) is a rare disease caused by mutations in the NR0B1 (DAX-1) gene. Non-classical manifestations have been described, including late-onset adrenal insufficiency (AI) and gonadotropin-independent precocious puberty (GIPP). We report long-term endocrine and neuropsychiatric outcomes of two siblings with CAH due to mutation in NR0B1.Case report: A 2-yr-old boy was referred due to progressive clinical signs of puberty since 6 months of age. At the age of 3 yr, AI was diagnosed, and the molecular analysis revealed a mutation in the NR0B1 (p.Cys65Leufs*6). Glucocorticoid replacement resulted in reduced testicular volume and decreased testosterone levels. At 11 yr, cyproterone acetate was indicated due to pubertal progression and bone age advancement. At 17 yr the patient had incomplete sexual development and no pubarche. Testosterone levels declined, despite pubertal levels of basal and GnRH-stimulated gonadotropin levels, indicating partial hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Adult height was 156 cm (SDS: -2.7) within his target height of 161 cm (SDS: -2.1). This patient also presented a psychiatric diagnosis of mood disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and was under methylphenidate, topiramate and sertraline. Both the patient and his mother had SNP array performed, which excluded contiguous gene syndrome. His younger brother also harbored the same mutation in the NR0B1, confirmed shortly after birth. AI was diagnosed with 1 month of age. Cortisone acetate and fludrocortisone were initiated. At 11 months of age, he presented signs of pubertal development with an elevated ACTH and testosterone levels with suppressed gonadotropins, confirming the diagnosis of GIPP. He was treated with cyproterone acetate. At 8 yr, a pubertal response to the GnRH test was detected, and leuprorelin was added. At 9 yr, due to the low growth velocity and advanced bone age, rhGH was started. However, this patient presented a poor compliance and severe obesity (BMI 33 kg/m2). Treatment for GIPP and secondary CPP was stopped at 10 yr, with bone age of 13.5 yr and height of 151 cm (SDS: - 2.3). The diagnosis of ADHD and autism spectrum disorder was made after neuropsychiatric assessment and the patient received treatment with methylphenidate and sertraline. Conclusion: Pubertal development of patients with CAH due to NR0B1 mutations can be heterogeneous. However, the intriguing neuropsychiatric features in two siblings may suggest a role of NR0B1 in neuropsychological development or other still unknown underlying genetic defect.

SAT-073 Testicular Abnormalities in the Absence of Precocious Puberty in Mccune-Albright Syndrome

Background: Mc-Cune Albright Syndrome (MAS) is a rare disorder characterized by skeletal lesions, skin hyperpigmentation and hyperfunctioning endocrinopathies. Gonadotropin-independent precocious puberty is the most common endocrinopathy, known to be more common in females than males, but little is known about male gonadal pathology in MAS. Clinical case: 3-year-old boy presented with worsening unilateral limp and was noted to have a pathologic femoral fracture. Bone scan demonstrated extensive fibrous dysplasia in the long bones and skull base. He had a large café au lait spot on the back. He was diagnosed with MAS on clinical criteria.At 4 years of age, initial exam was normal without signs of precocious puberty. Linear growth followed the 70th percentile, on track for his genetic background (mid parental height 70th percentile). Initial hormonal work up showed normal thyroid function, prolactin, growth factors and pre-pubertal gonadotropins and testosterone.At 6 years of age, he started to demonstrate bilateral testicular enlargement of 4-6 mL with pubic hair Tanner stage I. Bone age was concordant with chronologic age. Gonadotropins and testosterone level were pre-pubertal. Testicular ultrasound showed bilateral enlargement with punctuate densities without evidence of hydrocele or mass.By 8 years of age, he had further testicular enlargement to 8 mL bilaterally, normal penile length 5.5 cm (6.2 ± 1.0) and no pubic hair. Biochemical evaluation showed normal thyroid function and pre-pubertal gonadotropins and testosterone. Repeat testicular ultrasound showed heterogeneous echotexture representing microlithiasis, without a focal mass. Conclusion: Macroorchidism can be present in the absence of gonadotropin independent precocious puberty in MAS. Testicular ultrasound evaluation is important, as hyper-hypoechoic lesions, bilateral microlithiasis, focal calcifications, are the most common testicular abnormality in males with MAS.Microlithiasis, due to calcium deposits within the seminiferous tubules, have been described often in this condition, and should be considered a marker of male MAS. The natural history of male fertility and testicular cancer risk in the context of microlithiasis and testicular calcifications is unknown. Close observation and testicular imaging at baseline and after age 5, to characterize subclinical involvement, are an appropriate course to follow.

SUN-061 Anthropometric and Reproductive Outcomes of Patients with Gonadotropin-Independent Precocious Puberty Due to McCune-Albright Syndrome After Treatment with Distinct Therapeutic Agents

Ovarian estrogen-secreting cysts leading to peripheral precocious puberty (PPP) are some of the major clinical manifestations of the McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS). Therapeutic options for PPP of MAS include tamoxifen, progestational agents, aromatase inhibitors (AI) and anti-androgens that aiming to block sex steroid synthesis or action. Here, we described the anthropometric and reproductive follow-up of patients with PPP of MAS treated with distinct therapeutic agents. Thirteen unrelated girls with MAS were studied. They had PPP combined with café-au-lait spots or/and fibrous dysplasia. All patients were treated with one or more of the following agents: tamoxifen, medroxyprogesterone acetate, aromatase inhibitors (anastrozole or letrozole) and anti-androgens (cyproterone), and, in cases with secondary gonadotropic axis activation, depot GnRHa was used. Patients were evaluated every three months, when height, weight, and Tanner pubertal stage were determined. Vaginal bleeding or other adverse effects were also reviewed. The chronological age (CA) at the diagnosis of PPP was 5.9 ± 2.35 (2.4 to 10.2 years). Thelarche and vaginal bleeding were the first manifestations in 76.9% and 53%, respectively. The first choice of treatment was tamoxifen in 30.7% of the patients, followed by aromatase inhibitors (23%) and medroxyprogesterone acetate in 23% of them. Tamoxifen plus medroxyprogesterone, or cyproterone, or leuprorelin were used (each one) as the first choice in 1 patient (7.6%). Eight patients (61%) presented secondary central precocious puberty and were treated with depot GnRHa. Vaginal bleeding was recurrent in 70% of patients, during treatment. Progression of breast Tanner stage during treatment occurred in 78% of the patients. The great majority (80%) of girls presented bone age (BA) advancement at the diagnosis of PPP (mean Δ BA - CA of 3.2±1.3 yr), which was normalized for chronological age in all except one patient. The mean duration of treatment was 5.8 ± 3.4 yr (ranging from 1 to 12 yr). Three patients are still under medical treatment. Hypertrichosis and uterine enlargement were the main side effects of tamoxifen in 3 and 5 patients, respectively. One patient treated with letrozole presented laboratory hyperandrogenism. Ten patients reached their adult height (149.9 ± 7.9 cm), 60% of them were below their target height. Menarche occurred at a median age of 11.8 yr (10.4 to 14 y), and all but one patient presented regular menstrual cycles. One patient spontaneously became pregnant. Despite a reasonable number of treatment options for peripheral PP in MAS, none of them showed proven effective results in stopping vaginal bleeding, reduce pubertal progression and preserving potential genetic adult height. Therefore, due to the extremely heterogeneous nature of PPP of MAS, the clinical treatment remains a challenge.

Testotoxicosis without Testicular Mass: Revealed by Peripheral Precocious Puberty and Confirmed by Somatic LHCGR Gene Mutation

ABSTRACTPurpose: Testotoxicosis is an autosomal dominant form of limited gonadotropin-independent precocious puberty in boys. It is caused by a heterozygous constitutively activating mutation of the LHCGR gene encoding the luteinizing/hormone receptor (LHR). Some twenty mutations of the LHCGR gene have been reported. Most of them are constitutive mutations isolated from blood leukocyte DNA, although others are somatic, found only in testicular tumoural tissue. In all the previously reported cases of these somatic mutations, the tumour, whether a nodular Leydig cell adenoma or hyperplasia, was easily visible on testicular ultrasonography. The aim of this study was to describe an unusual presentation of a patient with the clinical and hormonal characteristics of testotoxicosis but no well-circumscribed lesion at testicular ultrasonography.Materials and Methods: Molecular analysis of the LHCGR gene was performed by direct sequencing of DNA extracted from peripheral leucocytes and testicular biopsy.Results: Molecular analysis didn’t find any LHR mutation in blood, whereas it revealed for the first time a somatic D578H mutation in testicular tissue despite no evidence of a nodular aspect at testis ultrasonography.Conclusions: This observation underlines the need to look for a somatic LHCGR gene mutation from the testicular biopsies of all boys with testotoxicosis with no constitutive LHCGR gene mutation identified from blood DNA, even in the absence of circumscribed testicular lesion at ultrasonography. In addition, based on the known link between LHR mutations and testicular tumourigenesis, yearly ultrasound monitoring of the testes should be considered for these patients.