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

[devoe]

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

[Kevin Pho, MD]

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.

[kevinmd]

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