What is "Adrenarche"?

This is the "awakening" of the adrenal glands. It normally happens around age 6-8. The adrenals start making weak male hormones (DHEA-S) which cause:

• Body odor (needing deodorant).
• Oily skin / mild acne.
• Pubic hair or underarm hair.

Is this Puberty?

No. True puberty ("Central Puberty") involves the brain and ovaries/testicles causing breast growth or testicular enlargement. Premature Adrenarche is just the adrenal glands waking up a little early.

Do we need to worry?

Usually, no. It is a benign condition. It is more common in girls who were overweight or born SGA.

• Rule Out: Doctors will check a bone age X-ray and blood tests to make sure it isn't something more serious like CAH or a tumor.
• Outcome: These children usually grow normally and enter true puberty at a normal age. They are at slightly higher risk for PCOS later in life.