Biliary atresia with hyperandrogenic amenorrhea.

The etiology of hyperandrogenic amenorrhea in a patient with biliary atresia successfully treated by a Kasai operation was unclear. Delayed puberty and menarche were evident at 16 years of age. Investigations showed no luteinizing hormone (LH)-follicle-stimulating hormone surge. A LH-releasing hormone provocative test showed a normal response. Peripheral aromatization of androgens appeared to function normally. Free testosterone (T) was normal, however, plasma levels of sex-hormone-binding globulin and total T were high. After menarche at 18 years of age, anovulatory menstrual cycles continued. A combination of estrogen and progesterone therapy was effective. A possible explanation may be that metabolic clearance of T is reduced in the presence of liver cirrhosis and a portosystemic shunt.