When Puberty Is Precocious: Scientific and Clinical Aspects

When puberty is precocious is a question in and of itself. The possibility that puberty is st starting earlier in children of the 21 century has become a contentious topic during the past few years. It has received much attention in the medical literature as well as the lay press. As research methods and interpretation of data vary between the studies that have attempted to resolve this issue, we are pleased to present the reader with three very different approaches to addressing the same question. We are thrilled to have experts in the field of basic science share the most up-to-date understanding of the mechanisms involved in the complicated interplay of factors that initiate puberty in different species. Also reviewed in the book are the many fascinating causes of precocity and new observations regarding the influence of the in utero environment and the affect of adoption from a developing country on pubertal timing. We have also included cutting edge discussions of endocrine disruptors, and the often overlooked psychosocial ramifications of precocious puberty. We believe that this book will be useful to primary care providers as well as specialists who deal with issues regarding abnormalities of puberty and reproduction. The topics covered in these chapters will provide the reader with a solid understanding of the diverse and fascinating causes of precocious puberty and different treatment options.

From the reviews:

"...succeeds in presenting a wide range of topics involved in the onset of puberty from many different perspectives." -Doody's Book Review, Weighted Numerical Score: 88 - 3 Stars

"When Puberty Is Precocious cogently presents both facts and speculations about whether children today are entering puberty earlier than children did in the past. ...The authors include many experts in clinical research and basic science. ... the book reads well and is organized in a way that makes it a valuable reference tool, and the references cited in the chapters are extensive. When Puberty Is Precocious will be appreciated by primary care physicians as well as pediatric endocrinologists." (Karen O. Klein, The New England Journal of Medicine, December, 2007)

"This monograph belongs to well known Contemporary Endocrinology Series ... . It appears useful not only for all pediatricians, especially for those specialized in pediatric endocrinology or pediatric gynecology, but also for gynecologists, psychologists and possibly also for pedagogists dealing with the education of adolescents. However, considerable number of information could be find in this monograph also by physiologists, pathophysiologists and general endocrinologists. ... excellent editorial work which considerably helps to the reader to percept and understand individual problems discussed by the authors." (Endocrine Regulations, February, 2008)