Adrenal hyperplasia, commonly referred to as congenital adrenal hyperplasia or CAH, is a malfunction of the adrenal system. The adrenal glands are located above the kidneys and produce hormones called cortisol and aldosterone. People with CAH do not have an enzyme that allows the body to produce these hormones. Late onset adrenal hyperplasia, also called non-classical adrenal hyperplasia or NCAH, is a milder form of CAH that manifests itself early in a child's life but is not life-threatening, according to the CARES Foundation, an organization dedicated to research, education and support for CAH. Symptoms of late onset adrenal hyperplasia affect both males and females.
Early Onset of Puberty
Late onset adrenal hyperplasia can cause both boys and girls to show signs of puberty much earlier than they normally would. CARES defines "early" as before age 8 for girls and before age 9 for boys. Both genders may begin to grow underarm and pubic hair years before they hit their teens. Girls may get their first period at a young age as well. Acne, body odor and mood swings may all be symptoms of NCAH in both girls and boys. Girls may develop a condition called hirsutism, or excessive growth of hair on their faces and bodies. Boys may need to shave at an early age. This is due to an excess of the male hormone androgen that is consistent with this form of adrenal gland disorder.
Reproductive Difficulties
Men and women who have late onset adrenal hyperplasia may have trouble starting a family once they enter adulthood if their symptoms are not treated. The lack of normal hormone production that causes NCAH can cause women to menstruate irregularly or not at all, and therefore may lead to infertility. Men with non-classic adrenal hyperplasia may have a low sperm count, which can also hamper becoming a father. Males with this form of adrenal disorder typically have small testicles and a comparatively large penis, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Short Stature
People of both genders who have NCAH may be shorter than the average adult as a result of their medical condition. Short stature may not be recognized as a sign of late-onset adrenal hyperplasia during childhood. Both boys and girls with the condition may show a normal growth spurt, yet the jumps in growth may occur earlier than their peers. In the adolescent years, however, others with normal adrenal function often surpass their affected peers' height.
