Delayed Puberty, Short Stature, and Tall Stature

Abstract

Delayed puberty and short stature are common complaints in adolescence. While they are most commonly benign variations of normal development, they can occasionally indicate more serious endocrine or systemic conditions. A careful history, physical exam, and sometimes laboratory and radiographic studies and/or provocative testing may help to determine the underlying cause of delayed puberty or short stature. Tall stature is a rare complaint and uncommonly indicates a more serious underlying condition such as a growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma.