11beta-hydroxylase deficiency masked by alternative medicines

J Paediatr Child Health. 2006 Oct;42(10):652-4. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1754.2006.00925.x.

Abstract

A 3.5-year-old Vietnamese boy presented with precocious pseudopuberty, hypertension and a skin rash that was treated with Vietnamese medications for 6 weeks, with resolution. Serum androgen levels were prepubertal, adrenal ultrasound was normal but a large unknown abnormal peak was detected in the urine steroid profile. Cessation of medications disclosed elevation of plasma androgen and 11-deoxycortisol levels. The unidentified urine steroid profile peak disappeared and a tetrahydro-11-deoxycortisol peak was detected. This patient represents a difficult and challenging diagnosis of 11beta-hydroxylase deficiency. Careful evaluation of history and physical finding in the presence of apparent biochemistry discrepancy resulted in a correct diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Hyperplasia, Congenital / diagnosis*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Complementary Therapies*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Puberty, Precocious / therapy*