Pattern of Physical Growth and Pubertal Changes in Adolescent Girls with Systemic Lupus Erthythematosus

Abstract

Abstract Background To study the pattern of physical growth and pubertal changes in adolescent girls with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Methods Weight, height, BMI, waist and hip circumference among 50 adolescent SLE girls (aged 8-17years), was cross-sectionally studied using standardised techniques and instruments. Breast development stage, presence or absence of pubic and axillary hair and age of attainment of menarche were also noted. Results With advancement of age, mean weight and height of SLE girls increased but they were lighter and shorter compared to normal Indian peers. 18.4% of study girls were short-statured while, only 1 participant was underweight. As per mid-parental height, 34.3% were predicted to have shorter final heights. BMI demonstrated an inconsistent trend with 12.3% and 9.2% being obese and overweight, respectively. Interestingly, 10.7% of SLE girls were at risk of metabolic syndrome (waist circumference > 70th centile). About 50% of study girls had attained menarche (mean age: 13.04 ± 1.38years). Appearance of pubic and axillary hair occurred around 1 year later than attainment of menarche. 33.80% of study subjects were in prepubertal stage of breast development and rest 66.20% were in advanced stages of breast development. SLE girls who had younger age at diagnosis and longer duration of therapy had significant delay in breast development and attainment of menarche. Conclusions SLE girls show delayed growth and pubertal attainments compared to their normal Indian and western counterparts. The data presented will provide understanding of the auxological dynamics and pattern of pubertal changes among adolescent girls with SLE living in north-western India.