Question
Can a 5-year-old boy show signs of precocious puberty?
Answer
Precocious puberty is an unusual growth and development phenomenon in children, characterized by the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics before the normal age of sexual development. The definition includes breast development, the appearance of pubic and armpit hair, rapid growth in height and weight, and the maturation of external genitalia. In some cases, this may lead to a shortened growth and development period or precocious puberty. When parents notice these signs in their children, they should take their child to the hospital for timely examination and treatment.