Resection of a pure androgen secreting adrenal adenoma in a postmenopausal woman: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Pure androgen secreting adrenal tumors are exceedingly rare, presenting in higher numbers in women compared with men, and are particularly rare in women of postmenopausal age. Postmenopausal hyperandrogenism is usually ovarian or adrenal in origin, with tumors representing an uncommon cause, which are more frequently ovarian but could also be adrenal. Herein we present a case of a 61-year-old postmenopausal woman, who had suffered multiple reproductive disturbances, presenting with a 10-year history of virilizing symptoms, most bothersome of which was generalized hirsutism, alongside clitoromegaly, irritability, and voice deepening. Work-up of the patient revealed a 1.5 cm left adrenal mass, which was removed through laparoscopic total adrenalectomy. Postoperatively, the patient’s androgen levels dropped significantly. An adrenal androgen secreting tumor is a can't miss diagnosis that should always be considered in the evaluation of postmenopausal women with hyperandrogenism, alongside the more common etiologies. Regular hormonal follow-up is essential.