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I'm 28 and still going through delayed puberty. Please Help!

Hello,

As the subject already states, I am a 28 year old male who's been going through a long and delayed puberty.  I'm tired of being treated and perceived as a kid both at work and at social gatherings, and I think now, I'm hoping to actually do something about it.  I went to an Endocrinologiest when I was 25 and was given a typical exam. My genitals were examined, blood tests were done to test hormone levels, and the doctor reached the same conclusion that other doctors have come to: that because I can produce sperm (I have a child), my development is normal but probably slow because of my family heritage.  The only problem is, a quick look at my mom and dad's pictures shows that they developed quite normally.  As a child, I had an undescended testicle which eventually had to be removed.  After some research, I recently discovered that this could possibly lead to a delay in puberty, which I think is what has happened to me.  

I look about 17 years old, but have normal sexual function, pubic hair, and I shave, but irregularly (like once every 4 days).  My facial hair has developed only in the past 2-3 years.  Ever since I can remember, I've always looked young, I always was the shortest kid in class. At 18, I looked about 12, at 25, I could pass as a 15 year old, and today, as I've already mentioned, I can pass as a 17 or 18 year old. I believe that I'm still going through puberty because my facial structure and body do not appear as that of a man.

Being a father now, you can imagine how difficult this must be for me as friends, strangers, and family members are just stunned that I have a child since I look so much like a teenager.   Any help would be appreciated!

-Man in a teen's body
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233190 tn?1278549801
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Going to an endocrinologist as well as other doctors and having the hormone tests come back normal is probably the most you can do at this point.  I cannot think of further tests that can further evaluate why you look younger than your age.

Delayed puberty may be a possibility, however if your hormone levels are currently normal, this should not play a large role.  Make sure that growth hormone and IGF-1 were included in the tests that you had previously (to test for growth hormone deficiency).  

You may want to inquire about another endocrinological opinion.  A second opinion can be found here:
http://www.abim.org/dp/apps/physdir.htm

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.
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