Diagnosis and management of ambiguous genitalia.

The diagnosis and management of a newborn with ambiguous genitalia is a diagnostic challenge. Rapid medical evaluation is necessary to uncover and treat potentially life-threatening illnesses, and to allay the psychological stress placed on new parents awaiting announcement of their baby's sex of rearing. Understanding the mechanisms of sexual differentiation can facilitate this task for the physician faced with this dilemma. This article reviews these mechanisms and suggests a logical approach to handling the work-up and treatment plan.