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Tanner Stages
Pubertal development is staged 1 (pre-pubertal) to 5 (adult). Age ranges differ between girls (faster) and boys. Significant deviation flags precocious or delayed puberty — pediatric consult recommended.
| Stage | Age (boys) | Age (girls) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0 — 9 yrs | 0 — 8 yrs | Pre-pubertal. No secondary sexual characteristics. |
| 2 | 9 — 12 | 8 — 11.5 | Onset of puberty. Breast budding (girls); testicular enlargement (boys). |
| 3 | 12 — 13.5 | 10 — 12.5 | Visible breast development; penile growth; pubic hair coarsening. |
| 4 | 13 — 15 | 11 — 13.5 | Areola raised separately; full pubic hair pattern; menarche typical (girls). |
| 5 | 14+ | 12.5+ | Adult sexual maturity reached. |
FAQ
My child seems delayed — should I worry?
Below 5th percentile age = constitutional delay (often catches up by 16-17). Also check growth velocity. Pediatric endocrinologist consult if family history of late puberty + child seems socially affected.
Precocious puberty — when to consult?
Tanner 2 before age 8 (girls) or 9 (boys) = precocious puberty. Causes range from idiopathic to McCune-Albright syndrome to brain lesions. Get tested.
Bone age vs chronological age?
Bone age (X-ray of left hand) shows skeletal maturity. Differences of 1-2 years are normal; greater differences may indicate growth disorders.