Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) Program

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a rare condition that a child is born with. It affects the body’s ability to make important hormones, including cortisol, aldosterone and androgens. These hormones control essential functions, such as blood pressure, hydration levels and growth and development.

Your child’s medical needs will vary based on the type of CAH they have. The two major types of CAH are classic and nonclassic.

• Classic CAH is the rarest, most severe type and can cause serious illness.

• Non-classic CAH is the most common type, and the symptoms are usually milder.

For all types, our team of experts work together to meet all your child’s unique needs from infancy through adolescence. Their care may include genetic testing, medication and mental health support. Girls with classic CAH may undergo surgery.

At Children's Health, our CAH program is one of only eight Centers of Excellence nationwide designated by the CARES Foundation. Through our many clinical trials, we are able to provide the most up to date medications and treatment before they’re widely available.

Newborn screening for classic CAH

Classic CAH, the most severe type, can be detected by newborn screening within a few days after birth. Through the Texas Department of State Health Services, every baby born in Texas receives screening for this condition. If your baby tests positive for classic CAH, they need further testing immediately to confirm a diagnosis and begin treatment.

As a CAH Center of Excellence, our team works with the Texas newborn screening system and serves as a resource for health care providers throughout the region. We work to ensure that these babies have access to the immediate follow-up care they need.

Personalized care from a team of experts

Children with CAH have needs that change throughout their life. They often need medication adjustments as they grow and develop. Some girls may need special gynecological care as they reach reproductive age. Some girls may also need or choose to have urological surgery.

Our team includes top experts in pediatric endocrinology, pediatric urology, adult and pediatric gynecology, genetics, psychiatry/psychology, social work and more. These specialists evaluate your child and provide personalized care as their needs change. We also help families better understand your child’s condition and how to manage it.

World leaders in Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia research

In the 1980s, Perrin White, M.D., pediatric endocrinologist at Children’s Health, discovered the genetic causes of the most common forms of CAH. This discovery led to the development of breakthrough diagnostics and treatments that have helped people all over the world who have CAH.

Dr. White is one of the leaders of our CAH program. Advancing research continues to be a top priority for our team. Children’s Health is a research site for many clinical trials that aim to create better CAH treatments. Through our program, your child may be able to access new treatments before they’re widely available.

If your child has CAH, you can learn more about what to expect with clinical trials. Call (214-456-5980) to speak to one of our experts about clinical trials your child could be eligible for.

Case Study: Life-Changing Care for a Teen with Complex Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Seamless transition to adult care

CAH can require lifelong medical care. Through our partnership with UT Southwestern Medical Center, we help our teenage patients easily transition to adult care. UT Southwestern has top national experts in CAH who can continue to provide teens with the latest treatments and personalized care throughout their life.

CAH Contact Information:

To request an appointment, please call (214-456-5980).