Virilizing Adrenal Adenoma Co-Secreting Cortisol and DHEA-S: A Case Report

    October 2025 in “ Journal of the Endocrine Society ”
    Meenakshi Bhalla, Carolina Victores, Chiamaka R Udedibor, Dragana Lovre, Robert C Galagan
    TLDR Surgery improved symptoms and normalized hormone levels in a woman with an adrenal tumor.
    This case report describes a 43-year-old female with a virilizing adrenal adenoma co-secreting cortisol and DHEA-S, presenting with symptoms such as hirsutism, weight gain, and anxiety-depression. Initial tests showed elevated cortisol and DHEA-S levels, leading to a diagnosis of cyclic adrenal Cushing’s syndrome. A laparoscopic left adrenalectomy was performed, resulting in significant clinical improvement, including weight loss, reduced facial hair growth, and resolution of depression symptoms. Post-surgery tests confirmed the normalization of hormone levels, supporting the diagnosis of co-secretion by the adrenal adenoma. The case highlights the complexity of diagnosing adrenal disorders, especially in patients with a history of PCOS.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Related Community Posts Join

    1 / 1 results

      community How to know if shedding is from tren or minoxidil?

      in Minoxidil  5 upvotes 1 year ago
      The user started using trenbolone and minoxidil simultaneously and experienced increased hair shedding, unsure which is causing it. Replies suggest both drugs could cause hair loss, with one advising to stop trenbolone to protect hair and another indicating minoxidil is unlikely the cause due to the timing.

    Similar Research

    5 / 411 results
      Adrenal Cortex Tumors and Hyperplasias

      research Adrenal Cortex Tumors and Hyperplasias

      2 citations , November 2011 in “InTech eBooks”
      Most adrenal cortex tumors are benign and non-secreting, but proper diagnosis and treatment are important due to the rare possibility of cancer.
      Androgenic Alopecia in Females: Diagnosis and Treatment

      research Androgenic Alopecia in Females: Diagnosis and Treatment

      14 citations , July 1987 in “Dermatologic Clinics”
      The document concludes that treating female hair loss should target reducing excess androgen and blocking its effects on hair follicles, with the best treatments being hormonal therapy, adrenal suppression, and topical minoxidil.
      Gonads

      research Gonads

      November 2013 in “John Wiley & Sons, Ltd eBooks”
      The document concludes that accurate diagnosis of male and female gonadal disorders is crucial for effective treatment and better patient outcomes.
      Hirsutism: Evaluation and Treatment

      research Hirsutism: Evaluation and Treatment

      42 citations , February 1985 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology”
      Excessive hair growth can be assessed by history, exam, and blood tests, and treated with medication like dexamethasone, birth control pills, and spironolactone.