Type B Insulin Resistance Resulting in Hyperthecosis in a Postmenopausal Woman
April 2019
in “
Journal of the Endocrine Society
”
Studysummary In this case study, the researchers reported that treating a woman with type B insulin resistance using rituximab, dexamethasone, and cyclophosphamide greatly reduced her insulin needs, but her hyperandrogenic state persisted, suggesting ovarian hyperthecosis.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
A 49-year-old African American woman developed type B insulin resistance at age 45, requiring up to 1800 units of insulin daily. She also experienced oligomenorrhea, excessive hair growth, and elevated serum testosterone levels. Treatment with rituximab, dexamethasone, and cyclophosphamide significantly reduced her insulin needs, but her testosterone levels remained high, indicating persistent hyperandrogenism. Postmenopausal status was confirmed by elevated serum FSH levels, and imaging revealed ovarian abnormalities. The case suggested that high insulin levels stimulated ovarian thecal cells, leading to hyperthecosis, and the patient was referred for bilateral oophorectomy.
