Hyperandrogenism
Hyperandrogenism Causes
Hyperandrogenism is a complex disorder, and no specific cause has been identified for patients. However, recent research indicates that hyperandrogenism ? and in particular Polycystic Ovary Syndrome ? may be caused by resistance to insulin. A large percentage of hyperandrogenism patients demonstrate insulin resistance. This disorder may also be genetically rooted. Though no specific gene has been identified in direct relation to hyperandrogenism, further studies are currently being done to explore this concept. To date, it is believed that several genes may contribute to the occurrence of hyperandrogenism. In addition, diabetes and obesity are both correlated to this endocrine disorder.
Hyperandrogenism Definition
Hyperandrogenism is an endocrine disorder that occurs in women, affecting roughly 10% of the female population. Occurring among all races and nationalities, this hormonal defect is known as the leading cause of infertility worldwide. The more popular form of this hormonal disorder is Hyperandrogenic Chronic Anovulation, more commonly known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
Hyperandrogenism Diagnosis
A pelvic ultrasound is often done to determine hyperandrogenism. But because symptoms are widely diverse, diagnosis can prove very difficult. Other diagnostic tools include Gynecologic ultrasonography, Laparoscopic examination, screening for elevated serum levels of androgens, plus a variety of blood tests which may aid in diagnosis.
Hyperandrogenism Symptoms and Signs
Primary symptoms of hyperandrogenism in women include weight problems, disruptive ovulation or menstrual cycle, as well as excessive amounts of androgenic hormones. Hyperandrogenism can manifest in females of any age ? from young children to menopausal adults. In most cases, symptoms may escape diagnoses for several years. Mild and transient symptoms commonly occur in adolescent females, including acne or hyperseborrhea. Most hyperandrogenism patients have irregular menstrual periods. In general, infertility results from a lack of ovulation. Women with this disorder may also experience pain during intercourse, a phenomenon known as dyspareunia. Hirsutism or excessive male-pattern body hair, as well as Androgenic alopecia or male-pattern baldness, can also occur. In addition, dark brownish patches of skin (Acanthosis nigricans) may appear as a sign of insulin resistance. Tiny flaps of skin known as Acrochordons may also be visible. In some cases, prolonged mood swings, pelvic pain, backaches, and even depression can occur.
Hyperandrogenism Treatment
The treatment for hyperandrogenism depends largely on the goals of the patient. Patients may, for example, opt to focus on restoring fertility for reproductive pruposes. Others may give more weight to treating hirsutism or acne. Still others would prefer to restore regular menstruation and prevent endometrial hyperplasia and even endometrial cancer. In all these focal points for treatment, debate continues on the most optimal route. To date, there is a distinct lack of large-scale clinical trials to compare and assess various forms of hyperandrogenism treatment. Common forms of treatment focus on helping reduce weight and insulin resistance. Because PCOS in particular is associated with obesity, weight management or weight loss is believed to restore normal menstruation. Most patients are prescribed drugs to lower insulin. Examples of this are metformin hydrochloride (Glucophage?), pioglitazone hydrochloride (Actos?), and rosiglitazone maleate (Avandia?). These insulin-lowering drugs are reported to have restored normal ovulation among patients.