[Effect of sex steroids on the lipoprotein profile]

Hyperandrogenemia is associated with relatively high LDL- and low HDL-cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of the development of arteriosclerotic disease. In three women suffering from androgen producing ovarian tumors, this observation could be confirmed. After surgical removal of the ovaries, lipoprotein profiles returned to normal. In contrast, androgens did not affect lipoproteins in two testicular feminized individuals. Despite elevated testosterone levels, the lipoprotein profiles were absolutely normal. This observation indicates that the affects on the lipoprotein profile is receptor mediated.