Puberty is the process of physical maturation manifested by an increase in
growth rate and the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics. Precoci
ous puberty is a common problem evaluated by pediatric endocrinologists, bu
t the longterm implications of the decision to treat or not to treat affect
the Life-long health care of these children. This series of three articles
will review some aspects of the presentation, diagnosis and therapeutic op
tions of precocious puberty and address the potential consequences for the
adolescent and adult patient with a history of early puberty. The first of
these articles will briefly discuss normal pubertal development as well as
gonadotropin-dependent precocious puberty.