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Updated: May 24, 2026
08:20
A Hyperandrogenic Mouse Model to Study Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: October 2, 2018
[Post-menopausal ovarian hyperthecosis].
A-L Castell1, S Hieronimus, A Chevallier
1Service d'endocrinologie, gynécologie et reproduction, hôpital l'Archet, CHU de Nice, 151 route de Saint-Antoine-Ginestière, Nice, France.
Gynecologie, Obstetrique & Fertilite
|February 17, 2012
Summary
Ovarian hyperthecosis is a rare cause of post-menopausal hyperandrogenia. Surgical removal of ovaries confirmed the condition and stopped excess androgen production.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gynecology
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Ovarian hyperthecosis is an infrequent cause of post-menopausal hyperandrogenia.
- Its pathophysiology is poorly understood, but insulin resistance and elevated luteinizing hormone (LH) may play a role, similar to polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Observation:
- Four post-menopausal patients presented with hyperandrogenia.
- High testosterone levels, enlarged ovaries without focal lesions, and metabolic syndrome suggested ovarian hyperthecosis.
- Bilateral annexectomy was performed for diagnosis and treatment.
Findings:
- Histological examination confirmed ovarian hyperthecosis, characterized by specific luteinized stromal cells.
- The surgical intervention led to the complete cessation of inappropriate androgen secretion.
Implications:
- This case series highlights the importance of considering ovarian hyperthecosis in post-menopausal women with hyperandrogenia.
- Surgical management can effectively resolve androgen excess in these patients.
- Further research into the pathophysiology of ovarian hyperthecosis is warranted.
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