Dear Kris,

Are you taking your child to a pediatric endocrinologist for a work up? Please make sure they do the right tests to rule out non-classical CAH. It is explained in depth on the CARES Foundation, Inc. web site.

Non-classical CAH children, (non-classical CAH first exhibits signs anytime from early childhood to adulthood) do not usually have enlarged clitorises. It is the androgens in utero that cause the enlargement, and non-classical is a late-onset disease. Pubic hair at age 5 is very unusual and deserves a thorough endocrine work-up. The symptoms could be caused by a form of CAH or another endocrine problem. Please do not allow the doctors to deter you from following up. I got a call from a mom this week where her pediatrician dismissed her concerns when her just 6 year old daughter had pubic hair. The doctor said " Why are you worried about a few hairs". Now the child is 8 and just diagnosed with Non-classical CAH with an advanced bone age of 10-3/4 years. Go with your intuition. If you feel something is wrong, make sure you get a thorough evaluation.

CARES Foundation has a list of pediatric endocrinologists with experience in CAH that covers the entire US and overseas. Please call if we can help in any way.1-866-227-3737 (toll free).

Kelly R. Leight, Executive Director
CARES Foundation, Inc.
(Congenital Adrenal hyperplasia Research, Education and Support)
973-912-3895
866-227-3737 (toll free)
email: kelly@caresfoundation.org
URL: www.caresfoundation.org
Disclaimer:
Any communication from CARES Foundation, Inc. is intended for informational and educational purposes only and in no way should be taken to be the provision or practice of medical, nursing or professional health-care advice or services.  The information should not be considered complete or exhaustive and should not be used in place of the visit, call, consultation or advice of your physician or other health-care provider.  You should not use the information in this or any CARES Foundation, Inc. communication to diagnose or treat CAH or any other disorder without first consulting with your physician or healthcare provider. Any referral to physicians is provided as a courtesy only.  CARES Foundation, Inc. does not specifically endorse or recommend these physicians.