Find Out More About central precocious puberty (CPP) and Lupron Depot-PED
To better understand central precocious puberty (CPP) and how it affects your child, and to work closely with your doctor to choose the appropriate treatment, you need as much information as possible. Below, you'll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about CPP and Lupron Depot-PED.
Questions about CPP
- What is central precocious puberty (CPP)?
- What's the difference between normal puberty and CPP?
- Who should I see if I suspect that my child has CPP?
- How is CPP diagnosed?
- What causes CPP?
- Are there other causes for early puberty?
- How do I explain CPP to my child and to others?
- How can I help with teasing by other kids?
- Will my child's fertility be affected in adulthood?
- Are there treatments available for CPP?
- What happens if my child has CPP and isn't treated?
Questions about Lupron Depot-PED
- What is Lupron Depot-PED?
- What does Lupron Depot-PED do?
- How does Lupron Depot-PED work?
- How long will my child have to take Lupron Depot-PED?
- What if my child misses an injection of Lupron Depot-PED?
- What will my child feel like when taking Lupron Depot-PED?
- Can anyone tell if my child is taking Lupron Depot-PED?
Questions about CPP
1. What is central precocious puberty (CPP)?
Central precocious puberty, also known as CPP, is normal puberty that begins too soon. The brain, usually for unknown reasons, tells the body to begin puberty prematurely. The condition occurs in approximately 1 in 5,000 to 10,000 children and is about 5 to 6 times more common in girls than in boys.Not all early development is considered central precocious puberty. Some children, even very young ones, have some early signs of puberty. Isolated cases of breast development or of some pubic hair without other signs are not considered to be CPP.
2. What's the difference between normal puberty and CPP?
Puberty is part of the normal development process of the human body. Everyone goes through it. The major difference between normal puberty and CPP is the age at which puberty begins.The average age when puberty normally starts is around 9 years for girls and 11 years for boys. For some children, normal puberty can start a year or two before or after these averages.
Children with CPP develop secondary sexual characteristics at an earlier age, sometimes even in infancy.
3. Who should I see if I suspect my child has CPP?
As with any issue regarding your child's health, if you feel something is wrong, see your pediatrician. Once your child has been examined, your doctor may refer you to a specialist in the area of CPP. These physicians are known as pediatric endocrinologists.4. How is CPP diagnosed?
Generally, the diagnosis of CPP begins with a detailed physical examination of your child by the doctor. Following the exam, there is usually a series of tests. These may include the following:An x-ray of the hand and wrist helps the doctor to determine if the bone age of your child is older than your child's chronological age. Bone age can help your doctor decide whether your child has CPP or not.
In addition, a blood test will be done to determine the level of various hormones in your child's bloodstream. A GnRH stimulation test checks to see if the cause of hormones in your child's bloodstream is coming from the brain. If it is, that's a sign that your child has CPP.
Pelvic and adrenal ultrasound may be done to look for abnormalities of the ovaries, adrenals, and testicles.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized axial tomography scan of your child's head will show any abnormalities in the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus.
Once appropriate tests are complete, the doctor will be able to look at the results, make a diagnosis, and consult with you about the appropriate course of treatment.
