Review of Implant Gonadotrophin-Releasing Hormone Agonist Use: Experience in a Single Academic Center

BACKGROUND: Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHas) are used for puberty suppression in central precocious puberty (CPP) and gender dysphoria (GD). Guidelines on biochemical monitoring are not defined. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of biochemical monitoring of GnRHa therapy in patients with CPP or GD. METHODS: This is a retrospective chart review of patients 18 years or younger who received GnRHa therapy from January 1, 2018, to March 20, 2021. RESULTS: A total of 103 patients were evaluated, 43 with CPP and 60 with GD. Using thresholds of basal luteinizing hormone (LH) <2 IU/L and stimulated LH <4 IU/L, biochemical pubertal suppression occurred in all but 2 patients. Basal LH frequently remained above prepubertal range. CONCLUSIONS: Laboratory assessment for puberty suppression on GnRHa therapy may be unnecessary in CPP and GD patients monitored with physical exams.