Hyperandrogenism
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| Hyperandrogenism | |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Androgen excess |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Hirsutism, acne, alopecia, menstrual irregularities |
| Complications | Polycystic ovary syndrome, infertility, metabolic syndrome |
| Onset | Puberty or later |
| Duration | Long-term |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Polycystic ovary syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen-secreting tumors |
| Risks | Obesity, insulin resistance, family history |
| Diagnosis | Blood test for testosterone levels, pelvic ultrasound |
| Differential diagnosis | Cushing's syndrome, thyroid disorders, ovarian tumors |
| Prevention | N/A |
| Treatment | Oral contraceptives, antiandrogens, lifestyle changes |
| Medication | Spironolactone, flutamide, metformin |
| Prognosis | N/A |
| Frequency | Common in women of reproductive age |
| Deaths | N/A |
Excessive Secretion of Androgens[edit]
Introduction[edit]
Excessive secretion of androgens, also known as hyperandrogenism, is a medical condition characterized by elevated levels of male sex hormones, such as testosterone, in the body. This condition can originate from the adrenal glands or gonads and may lead to various clinical manifestations, including virilization.
Causes[edit]
Hyperandrogenism can be caused by a number of factors, including:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)[edit]
PCOS is one of the most common causes of hyperandrogenism in women and involves the development of cysts in the ovaries along with hormonal imbalances.
Adrenal Gland Disorders[edit]
Disorders like congenital adrenal hyperplasia and adrenal tumors can result in excessive androgen production.
Gonadal Tumors[edit]
Tumors in the testes or ovaries can also lead to elevated androgen levels.
Symptoms[edit]
The symptoms of hyperandrogenism vary but may include:
- Virilization, or the development of male characteristics such as deepening of the voice and increased body hair.
- Menstrual irregularities.
- Acne and oily skin.
Diagnosis[edit]
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, blood tests to measure hormone levels, and imaging studies to identify possible tumors or cysts.
Treatment[edit]
Treatment depends on the underlying cause but may include:
- Medications to reduce androgen levels, such as birth control pills or anti-androgen drugs.
- Surgery to remove tumors if present.
Complications[edit]
If left untreated, hyperandrogenism can lead to complications like infertility, metabolic syndrome, and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
See Also[edit]
References[edit]
External Links[edit]
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