SUN-115 Leydig Cell Tumor: A Rare Cause of Hyperandrogenism
October 2025
in “
Journal of the Endocrine Society
”
TLDR Leydig cell tumors in the ovary can cause high testosterone and male traits in postmenopausal women but are treatable with surgery.
Leydig cell tumors of the ovary, though rare and benign, can cause significant hyperandrogenism in postmenopausal women, as illustrated by a 72-year-old soprano singer who experienced virilization symptoms such as voice deepening and male pattern hair loss. Initially misattributed to Anastrozole therapy, her elevated testosterone levels were eventually linked to a 2 cm hormonally active Leydig cell tumor on the left ovary, identified via MRI. Surgical removal of the tumor through bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy normalized her testosterone levels and resolved her symptoms, including hair regrowth. This case underscores the importance of investigating ovarian tumors in postmenopausal women presenting with sudden hyperandrogenism, as these tumors are curable with surgery, though long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor for recurrence.