Diagnostic Challenges in Postmenopausal Hyperandrogenism: Reports of Two Cases

    January 2026 in “ JCEM Case Reports
    Özge Şahin Kimyon, Deniz Eralp, Zeynep Elüstü Belten, Sema Ciftci, Hamide Pişkinpaşa
    TLDR Benign conditions can mimic serious ones in postmenopausal hyperandrogenism, requiring careful diagnosis.
    This article discusses the diagnostic challenges in postmenopausal hyperandrogenism through two case reports. Both cases involved postmenopausal women presenting with hirsutism and alopecia, conditions often associated with androgen-secreting tumors. However, the first case revealed ovarian stromal hyperplasia/hyperthecosis, while the second case showed normal ovaries with other gynecological findings. These cases underscore the importance of considering benign conditions like ovarian hyperthecosis or stromal hyperplasia, which can mimic more serious conditions, in the differential diagnosis. Accurate diagnosis often requires histopathological evaluation post-surgery to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure proper management.
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