Androgen insensitivity syndrome: preventive gonadectomy, pros and cons

Abstract

Androgen insensitivity syndrome is a genetic disorder characterized by complete or partial androgen insensitivity in individuals with a 46XY genotype. It is also the most common cause of disorders of sexual differentiation in patients with a 46XY karyotype. This condition is caused by a defect in the androgen receptor gene (AR), leading to abnormal development of male genitalia, impaired formation of male secondary sexual characteristics, and phenotypic features resembling the female sex.One of the important aspects related to the management of androgen insensitivity syndrome is the necessity of preventive gonadectomy. However, the rationale for prophylactic removal of gonads remains a subject of debate. This article presents a clinical case of a 37-year-old woman with complete androgen insensitivity syndrome who, despite recommendations for gonadectomy based on suspicious MRI characteristics of the gonads, made the decision to decline surgical intervention, justifying her choice by the positive impact of gonadal hormonal activity on her external appearance and physical characteristics. This clinical case highlights the complexity of decision-making in the management of androgen insensitivity syndrome, where patient preferences and needs may play a significant role, despite potential risks and concerns surrounding the preservation of gonads.