Estrogen-Only–Producing Adrenal Mass As An Overlooked Etiology Of Isosexual Precocious Puberty In Girls: A Case Report And Literature Review

Abstract

Objective: An estrogen-only-producing adrenal tumor is a rare etiology of isosexual precocious puberty (PP) in girls. Methods: We describe a 2.5-year-old girl who presented with signs and symptoms of isosexual PP. In primary laboratory and imaging investigations, serum estradiol level was found to be increased, while follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, cortisol, testosterone, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels were shown to be within normal ranges. Abdominopelvic ultrasound and abdominal computed tomography revealed a right-sided adrenal mass, which was initially assumed to be an incidentaloma. Diagnosis of an adrenal cortical tumor was confirmed by tumor resection. Histologic examination revealed the tumor to be a benign adenoma with scattered areas of necrosis. Results: Tumor resection resulted in normalized serum estradiol and diminished clinical signs after 3 weeks. The child received no additional treatment and remains symptom free after 30 months of close observation. Conclusion: With the intent to spread the awareness of adrenocortical tumors as a potentially malignant cause of PP in children, and due to the rarity of an estrogen-producing adrenal mass, we discuss the clinical and biochemical features of our patient and a brief review of the literature.