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Ovarian overproduction of androgens

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Treatment:

Treatment depends on the underlying diagnosis causing the increased androgen production. Medications can be given to decrease hair production for patients who have 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 benign, and will not recur after surgical removal.

Complications:

Infertility is a possible complication.

• Review Date: 5/15/2006
• Reviewed By: Melanie N. Smith, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMedHealthcare Network.

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