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Steroid secretion by a lipoid cell tumor causing virilization and its diagnosis with computerized tomography
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|December 1, 1985
Summary
A virilized woman had an ovarian lipoid cell tumor secreting testosterone and estradiol. This androgen excess caused her symptoms and indicated significant ovarian aromatase activity.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive endocrinology
- Oncology
- Medical imaging
Background:
- Lipoid cell tumors are rare ovarian neoplasms.
- Virilization in women can stem from androgen excess.
Observation:
- A case of a virilized woman with an ovarian lipoid cell tumor identified via computerized tomography.
- The tumor's primary secretions were testosterone and estradiol.
Findings:
- Androgen overproduction by the tumor caused the patient's virilizing symptoms.
- Elevated estradiol levels suggested substantial ovarian aromatase activity.
- Large ovarian-peripheral venous gradients supported significant local estrogen production.
Implications:
- Highlights the diagnostic utility of imaging in identifying rare ovarian tumors.
- Underscores the link between specific tumor secretions and clinical manifestations.
- Demonstrates the role of ovarian aromatase in androgen-secreting tumors.
