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A case of postmenopausal androgen excess
Irene Lambrinoudaki1, Nikos Dafnios2, Agathi Kondi-Pafiti1
1a 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and.
Summary
Ovarian steroid cell tumors are rare neoplasms causing virilization. This case highlights a postmenopausal woman diagnosed with an ovarian steroid cell tumor presenting with hyperandrogenism.
Area of Science:
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Pathology
Background:
- Ovarian steroid cell tumors are rare, accounting for <0.1% of ovarian neoplasms.
- These tumors often present with virilization, particularly in premenopausal women.
- Hyperandrogenism in postmenopausal women can stem from various ovarian, adrenal, or aging-related causes.
Observation:
- A 67-year-old postmenopausal woman exhibited rapid-onset symptoms of hyperandrogenism.
- The patient presented with signs suggestive of androgen excess.
Findings:
- An ovarian steroid cell tumor was diagnosed in the postmenopausal patient.
- Surgical intervention included laparoscopic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and synchronous hysterectomy.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of suspecting ovarian steroid cell tumors in postmenopausal women with progressive hyperandrogenism.
- Timely diagnosis and surgical management are crucial for potentially life-threatening neoplasms.
- Understanding the differential diagnosis of hyperandrogenism in postmenopausal women is critical.
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