Hyperthecosis syndrome. Clinical, endocrinologic and histologic findings

Five patients were found to have hyperthecosis ovarii as evidenced by the presence of large lipid containing thecal cells in the ovarian stroma. The clinical picture was similar in all of them, featuring mild virilization, obesity and oligomenorrhea, with refractoriness to clomid therapy. Plasma FSH levels were low normal, while LH levels were slightly elevated. Urinary 17-ketosteroids levels were elevated, and plasma testosterone concentrations were upper normal. The response to dexamethasone suppression and HCG stimulation is discussed. The effect of wedge resection on the clinical and endocrinologic pictures is evaluated.