Central precocious puberty (CPP) is characterized by the early activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in girls and may be difficult to distinguish from benign variants such as premature thelarche. Spexin and phoenixin-20 are novel neuropeptides that have been suggested to play roles in reproductive axis regulation.
The aim of this study was to compare serum spexin and phoenixin-20 levels among girls with central precocious puberty, girls with premature thelarche, and healthy age-matched controls. The study evaluated whether these biomarkers could help differentiate CPP from other conditions presenting with early breast development.
Clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical parameters were analyzed in all participants. Blood samples were collected and serum spexin and phoenixin-20 levels were measured using commercially available assay kits.
Who can participate
Age range
4 Years – 8 Years
Sex
FEMALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Female sex
* Age younger than 8 years,
* Presentation for evaluation of early pubertal signs (breast development)
* Classification into one of the following groups: central precocious puberty, premature thelarche, or healthy control
Exclusion Criteria:
* Presence of peripheral precocious puberty,
* Known chronic systemic disease,
* Use of medications affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis,
* Known genetic syndromes of congenital endocrine disorders
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.