Diseases Associated with Adolescence

Normal Adolescence Time of major physiologic, psychological, and sociologic changes Begins with development of secondary sex characteristics (~11 yrs) Ends when growth is completed (~18 yrs) = puberty

Caused by changes in hormonal activity –Hypothalamus and pituitary Pituitary gland releases gonadotropins –Stimulate the ovaries (gonads) to release ova, estrogen, and progesterone for females –Stimulate the testes (gonads) to produce sperm and testosterone (androgen) »Increased muscle mass

Characteristics of normal Adolescence Linear growth should occur (growth spurt) –Most growth abnormalities will be seen prior to adolescence, but can be confirmed by looking at the epiphyseal plates

Growth does not occur simultaneously: 1 st = limbs –2 nd = hip and shoulders –Lastly = skeletal and muscle mass –“awkward” appearance

Requirements for normal adolescence Adequate vitamin D and calcium (cones) Adequate Protein (muscle) Unfortunately, this is usually the most erratic dieting time –Obesity and children on the rise Doubled since 1980 Increased type 2 diabetes, bp, cholesterol, psychological problems BMI should be monitored if excessive weight gain is noticed

Other normal changes during adolescence In females: breast development, menarche(menstruation), fatty adipose deposits in hips and thighs In males: appearance of facial and chest hair, broadened chest, lower-pitched voice as larynx enlarges In both: increased sweat production, oil production of sebaceous glands

Other physiologic changes: Increased strength of heart contraction Lower pulse rate Cardiovascular and pulmonary functions reach adult values Declining metabolic rate

Group Time! Each group will get an abnormality –Musculoskeletal Kyphosis and Lordosis (1) Scoliosis and osteomyelitis (2) –Eating (3) –Skin(4) –Infection (5) –Disorders affecting sexual development (6)