PREMATURITY, SGA, OBESITY AND RAPID WEIGHT GAIN AS KEY FACTORS IN PREMATURE ADRENARCHE: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY IN TURKISH GIRLS.

Premature adrenarche (PA) is linked to prematurity, small for gestational age (SGA), and rapid weight gain. Understanding these factors is important for early identification and management of PA. To evaluate the impact of prematurity, SGA, obesity, and rapid weight gain on the development of PA in Turkish girls. A retrospective review of medical records from girls diagnosed with PA between 2015 and 2020. A total of 104 girls diagnosed with PA were included. Clinical data, including birth weight, gestational age, body mass index (BMI), and hormone levels (DHEA-S), were analyzed. The relationships between PA and prematurity, SGA, obesity, and rapid weight gain (delta weight SDS) were assessed. Of the 104 patients, 14.4% were born prematurely, 28.8% were SGA, and 30.5% were overweight or obese. A positive correlation was observed between delta weight SDS and DHEA-S levels (r=0.523, p<0.01). While obesity was not significantly associated with elevated DHEA-S levels, rapid weight gain was a key factor. Prematurity and SGA are significant risk factors for PA, with rapid weight gain playing a critical role. Monitoring weight gain in SGA and premature infants is essential to mitigate PA-related risks.