Symptoms:

Hyperandrogenism:

• Acne
• Amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods)
• Changes in female body contours
• Decrease in breast size
• Increase in body hair in a male pattern (hirsutism) such as on the face, chin, and abdomen
• Oily skin

Virilization:

• Clitoromegaly (enlargement of the clitoris)
• Deepening of the voice
• Increase in muscle mass
• Temporal balding (thinning hair and hair loss)

Signs and tests:

• 17-hydroxyprogesterone test
• ACTH test
• CT scan
• DHEA blood test
• Glucose test
• Insulin test
• Pelvic ultrasound
• Prolactin (if periods are infrequent or absent) test
• Testosterone test
• Total cholesterol test
• TSH test (if there is hair loss)

Treatment:

Treatment depends on the problem that is causing the increased androgen production. Medications can be given to decrease hair production in patients who have excess body hair (hirsutism) or to regulate menstrual cycles. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove an ovarian or adrenal tumor.

Expectations (prognosis):

The success of the treatment depends on what caused the excess androgen production. If the condition is caused by an ovarian tumor, surgical removal of the tumor may correct the problem. Most ovarian tumors are not cancerous (benign), and will not come back after they've been removed.

In polycystic ovary syndrome, the following can reduce symptoms caused by increased androgen levels:

• Careful monitoring
• Dietary changes
• Medications
• Regular vigorous exercise

Complications:

Infertility is a possible complication.

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome may be at increased risk for:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Obesity
• Uterine cancer

Prevention:

There is no known prevention. Maintaining a normal weight through healthy diet and regular exercise can reduce your chances of any long-term complications.