Rare Conditions of Hyperandrogenism Through Lifespan: A Case Series
January 2025
in “
Case Reports in Endocrinology
”
TLDR Accurate diagnosis of rare hyperandrogenism conditions requires detailed testing and sometimes invasive procedures.
This case series explores rare conditions of hyperandrogenism beyond polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in females, emphasizing the importance of detailed biochemical testing and clinical suspicion for accurate diagnosis. The study highlights four rare conditions, noting that while PCOS is the most common cause of hyperandrogenism, other conditions like ovarian hyperthecosis and androgen-secreting tumors can be challenging to diagnose. Key diagnostic measures include testosterone and DHEA-S levels, with values above certain thresholds indicating the need for further investigation. The paper suggests that when imaging is inconclusive, invasive diagnostic tools such as ovarian catheterization or laparoscopy should be considered to identify the source of androgen excess.