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Postmenopausal virilization due to ovarian stromal hyperthecosis
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|February 1, 1978
Summary
A woman with hirsutism and virilization had high testosterone levels due to ovarian stromal hyperthecosis. Surgical removal of the ovaries normalized testosterone, resolving her symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gynecology
- Oncology
Background:
- Hirsutism and virilization can indicate underlying endocrine disorders.
- Ovarian stromal hyperthecosis is a rare cause of androgen excess.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old woman presented with long-standing hirsutism and recent virilization.
- Laboratory tests revealed normal 17-ketosteroids, post-menopausal gonadotropins, and male-range serum testosterone.
Findings:
- Bilateral oophorectomy led to normalization of serum testosterone levels.
- Ovarian pathology confirmed stromal hyperthecosis as the cause.
Implications:
- Ovarian stromal hyperthecosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of virilization in postmenopausal women.
- Surgical management can effectively resolve androgen excess symptoms caused by this condition.