[Clinical aspects of the disordered androgen effect (the androgen resistance syndrome)]

The genetic, biochemical, clinical and endocrinological features of four distinct syndromes are described in which defective virilization in genetic and gondal men appears to result from resistance to androgen action. The clinical appearance of these forms of intersexuality covers the whole spectrum of phenotypical female patients to phenotypically normal appearing men with infertility. Based on studies with cultured genital skin fibroblasts three defects on the level of the androgen target organ can be differentiated in these syndromes: 1. Defective testosterone metabolism, 2. Anomalies of the androgen receptor and a 3. Postreceptor defect.