Androgen-Secreting Tumors

Androgen-secreting tumors are rare growths that produce excess male hormones called androgens. These tumors can develop in the ovaries or adrenal glands, which are small glands that sit on top of your kidneys. When these tumors form, they create too much testosterone and other androgens in the body.

In women, these tumors cause a condition called virilization. This means developing male characteristics like facial hair, a deeper voice, and male-pattern baldness. The excess hormones also disrupt normal menstrual cycles and can cause fertility problems. These tumors are uncommon but require prompt medical attention.

Some androgen-secreting tumors are benign, meaning they do not spread to other parts of the body. Others are malignant, which means they are cancerous and can spread. Rapid onset of symptoms with very high testosterone levels often suggests a malignant tumor that needs urgent evaluation and treatment.

• Excessive facial or body hair growth, especially on the chin, upper lip, chest, or back
• Deepening of the voice
• Male-pattern baldness or thinning hair on the scalp
• Irregular or absent menstrual periods
• Increased muscle mass
• Acne that appears suddenly or worsens significantly
• Enlargement of the clitoris
• Decreased breast size
• Oily skin
• Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant

Symptoms typically develop rapidly over weeks to months rather than years. The speed at which symptoms appear can help doctors determine how serious the tumor may be. Some people may notice abdominal pain or bloating if the tumor is large.

Androgen-secreting tumors develop when cells in the ovaries or adrenal glands grow abnormally and produce excess androgens. The exact cause of why these cells start growing is not fully understood. Most cases occur randomly without a clear family history or genetic link. Women of any age can develop these tumors, though they are most commonly diagnosed in women of reproductive age.

Risk factors are not well established because these tumors are rare. Rapid development of male characteristics in women should always be evaluated promptly. Very high testosterone levels, typically above 200 nanograms per deciliter, strongly suggest the presence of a tumor. Early detection through blood testing can help identify these tumors before they grow larger or spread.

Diagnosis begins with blood tests to measure testosterone and other androgen levels. In women, total testosterone levels above 200 nanograms per deciliter strongly suggest an androgen-secreting tumor. Rite Aid offers total testosterone testing as part of our flagship blood panel, making it easy to screen for this condition. These tests can detect elevated androgens and help guide further evaluation.

After blood tests show high testosterone levels, imaging studies are needed to locate the tumor. Doctors typically use CT scans or MRI to examine the ovaries and adrenal glands. Sometimes additional hormone tests are ordered to determine which gland is producing excess androgens. A biopsy or surgical removal may be needed to confirm whether the tumor is benign or malignant.

• Surgical removal of the tumor, which is the primary treatment for both benign and malignant tumors
• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy if the tumor is cancerous and has spread to other areas
• Hormone-blocking medications to reduce androgen effects while awaiting surgery or if surgery is not possible
• Regular monitoring with blood tests and imaging to check for tumor recurrence after treatment
• Follow-up care with an endocrinologist to manage hormone levels and restore normal function
• Fertility counseling if pregnancy is desired after treatment, as menstrual cycles typically return to normal