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.
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.
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.
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.
1540 citations
,
October 2008 in “Fertility and Sterility” The report concludes that PCOS is mainly a condition of excess male hormones and its definition may change as new information is discovered.
117 citations
,
May 2017 in “Human Reproduction Update” The update highlights that non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia is common in women with excess male hormones, requires specific hormone tests for diagnosis, and has various treatment options depending on age and symptoms.
