Delayed Presentation of Turner Syndrome: Challenge to Optimal Management

BACKGROUND: Turner syndrome (TS) is a chromosomal disorder associated with dysmorphic features and comorbidities, with recent trends focusing on early diagnosis for adequate management. AIM: The aim is to study the age and mode of presentation of TS, associated comorbidities and look for any correlation with the genotype. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of girls with TS attending the endocrinology clinic of a tertiary care center. Their age, mode of presentation, and clinical features were noted. All participants underwent ear examination, echocardiography, and ultrasonography of the abdomen. Laboratory investigations included serum T4, thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyroid peroxidase antibodies, follicle-stimulating hormone, fasting, and 2-h plasma glucose after 75 g glucose load and a karyotype. Simple descriptive statistical methods were used. RESULTS: Seventeen cases of TS were seen with a median age of presentation of 18 years (range 14–42 years). Primary amenorrhea was the most common reason for seeking medical attention (76.4%) followed by short stature and diabetes mellitus (11.8% each). The mean height at presentation was 137.5 ± 5.4 cm. Monosomy of X chromosome (45,X) was the most common karyotype obtained in 58.8% of the patients, followed by 45,X/46, XX in 17.6%, 45,X/46X,i(X)(q10) in 11.8%, and 45,X/47,XXX and 46X,delXp11.2 in 5.9% patients each. Bicuspid aortic valve was seen in two patients having a 45,X/46,XX karyotype. CONCLUSION: Primary amenorrhea is the most common presenting feature in girls with TS leading to a delayed age of presentation. Short stature and dysmorphic features are often overlooked in infancy and childhood due to socioeconomic factors. This late age of presentation is a cause of concern as early detection and management is important for height outcomes, bone health, and psychosocial support. Assessment of comorbidities becomes important in this setting.