The etiology and therapeutic strategies of premature ovarian insufficiency in children and adolescents

Premature ovarian insufficiency(POI), previously known as premature ovarian failure(POF), is defined as the occurrence of premature ovarian failure in women under the age of 40 who may present with delayed puberty, primary or secondary(for 4 months or more)amenorrhea with two times and more of abnormal serum hormonal levels(low estradiol and raised gonadotrophins). And POI is not common in children and adolescents.It is generally believed that the etiologies of POI may be genetic, immunological, iatrogenic, etc.Hormone replacement therapy(HRT)is the primary treatment of POI in children and adolescents, and evaluation of therapeutic strategies to POI including cardiovascular, skeletal and emotional health is needed as well.Recently, the incidence of POI in children and adolescents has increased, therefore, early diagnosis and active treatment are urgent and necessary.Thus, this review will mainly be focused on the etiology and treatment of POI in children and adolescents. Key words: Children; Adolescents; Premature ovarian insufficiency; Etiology; Hormone replacement therapy