Phenotypic variation of 46,xx late identified congenital adrenal hyperplasia among indonesians

Abstract

Objectives. To describe the phenotype variation in Indonesian 46,XX late-identified congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and the correlation between 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) and genital virilization. Methodology. Retrospective study of 39 cases with five salt-wasting (SW) and 34 simple virilizing (SV) types. Results. The median age of the patients was 9.83 years (range, 0.58 to 44 years) with Prader score 2 to 5. Clitoromegaly (100%) and skin hyperpigmentation (87%) were the most common features. Lack of breast development (Tanner 1 to 2) and menstrual disorders occurred in 9 patients (teenagers and adults). Short stature (6), low voice (14), prominent Adam’s apple (9) and hirsutism (4) were found only in SV types. Rapid growth (7) and precocious puberty (8) were identified in children. Male gender on admission was found in 13 patients. The mean of 17-OHP level was 304.23 nmol/L [standard deviation (SD) 125.03 nmol/L]. There was no correlation between 17-OHP levels and virilization (r=0.19, p>0.05). Conclusion. Late-identified CAH showed severe virilization and irreversible sequelae, with clitoromegaly and skin hyperpigmentation as the most commonly seen features. Masculinization of CAH females created uncertainty with regard to sex assignment at birth, resulting in female, male and undecided genders. There is no significant correlation between 17-OHP levels with the degree of virilization in CAH females.