FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

What Tanner stage corresponds with a 12-year-old with enlarged breasts and curly pubic hair?

1. Tanner stage II

2. Tanner stage III

3. Tanner stage IV

4. Tanner stage V

The correct answer is: Tanner stage III

The appropriate Tanner stage for a 12-year-old exhibiting enlarged breasts and curly pubic hair aligns with Tanner stage II. At this stage, girls typically experience breast budding, where the breast tissue begins to develop, and there may be some pubic hair that is darker and coarser than the fine, non-pigmented hair that commonly appears earlier. While Tanner stage III includes further development of breasts and more pronounced pubic hair, which tends to be fuller and extends over a larger area, the attributes of breast enlargement and the presence of curly pubic hair indicate that the individual is still in the early stages of maturation. The presence of curly hair suggests some of the secondary sexual characteristics are developing, but since the description fits transitional growth, Tanner stage II remains the most fitting classification for this scenario. In contrast, Tanner stage I would indicate prepubescent characteristics, and Tanner stages IV and V would suggest more advanced development beyond what is described. Thus, the Tanner stage II reflects the beginning of sexual maturation, accurately corresponding to the signs presented in the question.