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Updated: Jul 16, 2026

A Hyperandrogenic Mouse Model to Study Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: October 2, 2018
[Leydig cell tumor as a cause of hirsutism in a postmenopausal woman]
Anna Matuszczyk1, Stephan Petersenn, Harald Lahner
1Klinik für Endokrinologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Deutschland. anna.matuszczyk@gmx.de
Background:
Hirsutism or virilization in postmenopausal women may be due to increased testosterone levels caused by an androgen-secreting tumor. The preoperative localization of small ovarian or adrenal androgen-secreting tumors is difficult.
Case Report:
A 61-year-old, postmenopausal woman presented with progressive hirsutism and deepening of voice over the last 9 years. Serum testosterone was very high (almost 30 nmol/l). Computed tomographic (CT) scans of the adrenals and ultrasonography of the pelvis were negative. Selective catheterization and [(18)F]FDG-PET/CT investigation raised the suspicion of an androgen-secreting tumor of the right ovary. Oophorectomy was performed, and a Leydig cell tumor of the right ovary was confirmed on histological examination.
Conclusion:
Selective catheterization and [(18)F]FDG-PET investigation may aid the detection of androgen-secreting tumors.
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