ALE HORMONES, properly called androgens, are steroid-type hormones produced by the ovaries (or testes in men) and adrenal glands. Androgens are present in both sexes, although in lower levels in women. The body normally keeps androgens perfectly balanced with female hormones, but sometimes a woman's body can produce too much, known as androgen excess. Androgen excess primarily is seen in women during the reproductive years, from young adolescence to the start of menopause. Many women with androgen excess have a condition known as the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Other androgen excess disorders include non-classic adrenal hyperplasia, the hyperandrogenic-insulin resistant-acanthosis-nigricans (HAIRAN) syndrome, and androgen-secreting tumors. Use or abuse of certain androgen-like drugs may also result in clinically evident androgen excess. Finally, although not considered a true androgen excess disorder, patients may present with idiopathic hirsutism, a condition where women may have male-like excess facial and body hair growth (i.e. hirsutism), but otherwise normal ovulation and normal androgen levels. Because the signs and symptoms of androgen excess can be varied and similar to other conditions, several exams and tests may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Diagnostic procedures may include:
- Degree of hirsutism
- Body habitus
Complete physical examination and history, including assessment of:
- Family history
- Nutritional assessment
- Assessment of ovulatory function
- Pelvic ultrasonography for the examination of the ovaries
Blood testing for:
- Hormonal levels, including the measurement of androgens and thyroid, prolactin or adrenal hormones
- Testing for insulin resistance and glucose tolerance
- Testing of adrenal (adrenocortical) function
For more information on the signs and symptoms of androgen excess, click here. For more information on the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, click here.