Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is the characteristic of Tanner Stage II in female breast development?

1. Development of breast buds

2. Breast and areola form one mound

3. Secondary mound of breast tissue

4. Fully developed adult breasts

The correct answer is: Development of breast buds

The characteristic of Tanner Stage II in female breast development is the development of breast buds. At this stage, which typically occurs between the ages of 9 and 11, the initial tissue changes begin as small, firm lumps or nodules appear under the nipple, signaling the onset of breast development. These breast buds indicate the beginning of puberty and are the first visible signs of breast tissue growth. The other stages describe more advanced developments: as females progress to Tanner Stage III, the breast and areola form one mound, and in Stage IV, there is a secondary mound of breast tissue. Tanner Stage V represents fully developed adult breasts. Therefore, Tanner Stage II is specifically marked by the formation of breast buds, distinguishing it from subsequent stages of breast maturity. This fundamental understanding of breast development stages is essential for recognizing normal physiological changes during puberty.