Management of Endocrine Disease: Hyperandrogenism After Menopause

September 2014 in “ European journal of endocrinology ”

Marios C Markopoulos, Evanthia Kassi, Krystallenia Ι. Alexandraki, George Mastorakos, Gregory Kaltsas

hyperandrogenism androgens terminal hair growth virilization adrenal androgen-secreting tumors androgen excess clinical and hormonal indices imaging studies non-tumorous hyperandrogenism cardiovascular health excess androgens hair growth tumors hormonal levels imaging techniques

Studysummary This review examines the causes and characteristics of androgen excess in postmenopausal women, but reports no new clinical results; the authors emphasize challenges in diagnosis and potential long-term health impacts.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The document discusses hyperandrogenism in postmenopausal women, a condition characterized by an excess of androgens from the adrenals or ovaries, leading to increased terminal hair growth or virilization. Physicians are advised to rule out rare but serious tumorous causes, such as adrenal androgen-secreting tumors. The onset speed and severity of symptoms, along with the degree of androgen excess, can help identify the source, but there is no consensus on the clinical and hormonal indices or imaging studies needed for a definitive diagnosis. The review highlights the need for further research, as the aging population grows and more cases are likely to emerge, and the long-term effects of non-tumorous hyperandrogenism on cardiovascular health are still unclear. The review aims to clarify the causes and mechanisms of androgen excess and to explore potential clinical features, hormonal levels, and imaging techniques that could aid in diagnosis and understanding of long-term consequences.

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