Signs and symptoms of precocious puberty may include:

• 1. Breast development: Girls may experience the development of breast buds, which are the initial stages of breast growth.
• 2. Growth of pubic and underarm hair: Both girls and boys may notice the growth of pubic and underarm hair.
• 3. Rapid growth: Children with precocious puberty may experience a growth spurt and reach adult height at an earlier age.
• 4. Acne: The development of acne or oily skin may occur earlier than expected.
• 5. Body odor: Increased sweating and body odor may develop earlier.
• 6. Menstruation: In girls, the first menstrual period (menarche) may occur at an earlier age.
• 7. Deepening of voice: Boys may experience a deepening of the voice.

Precocious puberty can have physical, emotional, and social implications for affected children. It is important to identify the underlying cause and manage the condition appropriately. The causes of precocious puberty can vary and may include:

• 1. Idiopathic central precocious puberty: This is the most common form and occurs without an identifiable cause.
• 2. Central nervous system abnormalities: Brain tumors, infections, or other abnormalities in the brain can lead to early activation of the hormonal signals that trigger puberty.
• 3. Hormonal imbalances: Certain conditions, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia or hypothyroidism, can disrupt the normal hormonal balance and cause early puberty.
• 4. Exposure to external hormones: In rare cases, exposure to external sources of hormones, such as hormone-containing medications or creams, can trigger precocious puberty.

If precocious puberty is suspected, a healthcare professional will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include physical examination, hormone level testing, and imaging studies (such as brain MRI) to determine the underlying cause. Treatment options for precocious puberty depend on the cause and may include medication to suppress the hormones responsible for early puberty or surgery to remove tumors or other abnormalities if present.