TLDR Postmenopausal virilization can be caused by ovarian hyperthecosis, treatable with surgery.
The document discussed a case of a 51-year-old postmenopausal woman who developed signs of virilization over 12 months, alongside poorly managed type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Laboratory tests revealed elevated serum androgen levels and hyperinsulinemia, while imaging showed enlarged ovaries with normal adrenal glands, suggesting ovarian stromal hyperthecosis. A bilateral laparoscopic anexectomy confirmed the diagnosis, and serum testosterone levels normalized post-surgery. The study highlighted the diagnostic challenge of postmenopausal virilization, emphasizing the importance of detailed clinical history, correct laboratory interpretation, and imaging to differentiate benign from malignant causes and to guide treatment.
27 citations
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April 2017 in “European journal of endocrinology” The research found that MRI and certain hormone levels can help tell apart ovarian tumors from hyperthecosis in postmenopausal women, but tissue analysis is still needed for a definite diagnosis.
1 citations
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May 2011 in “Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology” Hair loss in postmenopausal women due to ovarian hyperthecosis is rare, but removing the ovaries can significantly improve the condition.
12 citations
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January 2009 in “Gynecological Endocrinology” A postmenopausal woman's hair loss and excess hair growth improved after surgery for ovarian hyperthecosis.
17 citations
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February 2003 in “Australasian Journal of Dermatology” Hair loss in postmenopausal woman caused by ovarian issue.
2 citations
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July 2012 in “Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology” A 12-year-old girl with very high testosterone and insulin resistance improved with birth control pills, suggesting PCOS can cause high testosterone without tumors.
70 citations
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February 2012 in “Human Reproduction” Many young women who donate blood have hormonal disorders like excess male hormones and PCOS.
3 citations
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January 2012 in “Hanyang Medical Reviews” The document concludes that more research is needed to create suitable diagnostic criteria and understand PCOS in Korean women, and genetics may allow for personalized treatment.
85 citations
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June 2006 in “Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” The document concludes that hirsutism is the main sign for diagnosing hyperandrogenism, which requires a detailed patient history and physical exam.
