What is the definition of micropenis in pediatric patients?

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From the Research

Definition of Micropenis

  • Micropenis is defined as a penis with a stretched penile length of less than 2.5 SD below the mean for age or stage of sexual development 1, 2, 3, 4.
  • In neonates, micropenis is defined as a penile length of less than 2 cm 2, 4.
  • In children above 1 year of age, micropenis is defined as a stretched penile length of less than 1.9 cm 1.
  • Micropenis should be differentiated from a buried or hidden penis and aphallia 1.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

  • Diagnosis of micropenis should be made using a standard technique of stretched penile measurement and nomograms for age 1.
  • Evaluation of micropenis should include history-taking, physical examination, specific hormonal testing, and chromosomal and imaging examinations if necessary 4.
  • Basal and human chorionic gonadotropins (HCG)-stimulated gonadotropins, testosterone, DHT, and androstenedione levels should be assessed 2.
  • Karyotype assessment is equally important in the evaluation of micropenis 2.

Etiology and Classification

  • Micropenis can be classified as due to deficient testosterone secretion or action 3.
  • Etiologies of micropenis include hypothalamo-pituitary disorders, genetic syndromes, partial gonadal dysgenesis, testicular regression, and disorders of testosterone biosynthesis and action 2.
  • Micropenis can be associated with hypospadias, incomplete scrotal fusion, and cryptorchidism, which are suggestive of disorders of sex development (DSD) 2.

References

Research

The child with micropenis.

Indian journal of pediatrics, 2000

Research

Micropenis.

Indian journal of pediatrics, 2023

Research

[Micropenis].

Archives de pediatrie : organe officiel de la Societe francaise de pediatrie, 2014

Research

[Micropenis in children: etiology, diagnosis and therapy].

Nederlands tijdschrift voor geneeskunde, 1997

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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