Definition of Arrhenoblastoma of ovary:

Arrhenoblastoma of the ovary is an ovarian tumor that releases the male hormone, testosterone, or other hormones.

See also: Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

This is a rare tumor. It accounts for less than 0.5% of all ovarian tumors.

These tumors are found in women of all age groups, but are most common in young women.

Symptoms:

This tumor releases male hormones, which causes the following symptoms in women:

• Deepening of the voice
• Increased acne
• Increased hair on the face and body
• Increased size of the clitoris
• Male pattern baldness

Signs and tests:

• Blood tests to check levels of hormones that may be released by the tumor
• CT scan of the pelvis and abdomen to see if the tumor has spread
• Ultrasound of the ovaries

Treatment:

Surgery is the main treatment. If the cancer has spread, chemotherapy or radiation therapy should be considered.

Support Groups:

You can ease the stress of illness by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See cancer - support group.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome of this disease depends on whether it has spread, and whether surgery can completely remove the tumor. The overall 5-year survival rate is 70 - 90%.

Arrhenoblastoma has a low chance of spreading. If the tumor is found early, the cure rate can be very good.

Complications:

• Complications of surgery
• Masculine symptoms (virilization)
• Spread of the tumor if it is not completely removed

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you are a woman experiencing masculine symptoms, or you feel a lump near your ovaries.

Prevention:

There is no good screening test. Getting a gynecological exam each year and recognizing masculine symptoms can help detect the disease.