Transitions in endocrinology: treatment of Turner's syndrome during transition

Eur J Endocrinol. 2013 Dec 27;170(2):R57-74. doi: 10.1530/EJE-13-0900. Print 2014 Feb.

Abstract

Transition in health care for young patients with Turner's syndrome (TS) should be perceived as a staged but uninterrupted process starting in adolescence and moving into adulthood. As a condition associated with high risk of short stature, cardiovascular diseases, ovarian failure, hearing loss and hypothyroidism, TS requires the attention of a multidisciplinary team. In this review paper, we systematically searched the relevant literature from the last decade to discuss the array of problems faced by TS patients and to outline their optimal management during the time of transfer to adult service. The literature search identified 233 potentially relevant articles of which 114 were analysed. The analysis confirmed that all medical problems present during childhood should also be followed in adult life. Additionally, screening for hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia, and osteoporosis is needed. After discharge from the paediatric clinic, there is still a long way to go.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Autoimmune Diseases / diagnosis
  • Autoimmune Diseases / epidemiology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / diagnosis
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / epidemiology
  • Comorbidity
  • Diabetes Mellitus / diagnosis
  • Diabetes Mellitus / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Hearing Disorders / diagnosis
  • Hearing Disorders / epidemiology
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy
  • Humans
  • Osteoporosis / diagnosis
  • Osteoporosis / epidemiology
  • Puberty / physiology
  • Transition to Adult Care*
  • Turner Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Turner Syndrome / epidemiology
  • Turner Syndrome / psychology
  • Turner Syndrome / therapy*