Virilization of young children after topical androgen use by their parents.
Level 4 - case-series / case-control
Case series of passive medication exposure in children
PubMed 15231947 · doi:10.1542/peds.114.1.282
What was done
Clinical evaluation and reporting of young children who developed signs of virilization after passive skin contact with adults using topical steroid/androgen preparations.
What was found
The abstract reports no quantitative values, baseline hormone concentrations, or exact patient counts. It notes that laboratory findings were consistent with exogenous androgen exposure and that stopping contact with the topical products led to reduced androgen levels or symptom regression.
Why it matters
Highlights the risk of unintended secondary transfer of transdermal androgens from adults to young children, emphasizing the need for patient counseling on passive exposure risks.
Limits
The abstract provides very little detail: the sample size, specific ages, product formulations, exposure durations, and quantitative hormonal changes are omitted. As an uncontrolled case series, it cannot estimate incidence or risk rates.
Cited by
- supports Topical testosterone creams can accidentally transfer to children through skin or residue contact, causing secondary virilization.