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Updated: May 31, 2026
06:18
An In Vivo Estrogen Deficiency Mouse Model for Screening Exogenous Estrogen Treatments of Cardiovascular Dysfunction After Menopause
Published on: August 13, 2019
Approach to the Patient: Investigation of Postmenopausal Androgen Excess
Lauren Madden-Doyle1,2, Kevin Bowers1, Mark Sherlock1,2
1Androgens in Health and Disease Research Group, Academic Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), Dublin, Ireland.
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|May 30, 2026
Summary
Managing androgen excess in postmenopausal women requires identifying the cause, focusing on malignancy or genetic syndromes. This article proposes an investigative and management approach using clinical, biochemical, and radiological data.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gynecology
- Oncology
Background:
- Postmenopausal androgen excess is a complex clinical issue.
- Accurate risk stratification requires understanding female androgen physiology and menopausal changes.
- Identifying underlying causes, including malignancy and genetic syndromes, is critical for management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a systematic approach for investigating and managing postmenopausal androgen excess.
- To integrate clinical, biochemical, and radiological findings for diagnosis.
- To provide an algorithmic diagnostic strategy highlighting red flag indicators.
Main Methods:
- Review of androgen physiology in women and during menopause.
- Clinical assessment incorporating patient history and physical examination.
- Biochemical assays for hormone levels.
- Radiological imaging for identifying potential pathologies.
- Development of a diagnostic algorithm based on red flag features.
Main Results:
- The article outlines key clinical, biochemical, and radiological indicators for postmenopausal androgen excess.
- A structured diagnostic algorithm is presented to guide investigations.
- Emphasis is placed on differentiating benign conditions from potentially malignant or genetic causes.
Conclusions:
- A systematic, multi-faceted approach is essential for managing postmenopausal androgen excess.
- Integrating various diagnostic cues aids in accurate etiological identification.
- Early detection of serious underlying pathology is paramount for effective patient care.
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