Use of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist in the evaluation of postmenopausal virilization due to ovarian hyperthecosis. A case report.

BACKGROUND

Hyperthecosis in a postmenopausal woman is a very rare cause of virilization, and only five cases have been reported previously.

CASE: A woman presented with a nine-year history of increasing hirsutism and a mild virilization beginning in the perimenopausal period. Initial androgen metabolite concentrations suggested attenuated late-onset adrenal hyperplasia, but a trial of dexamethasone treatment was ineffective. Subsequent use of leuprolide acetate resulted in a biochemical and clinical improvement in the signs and symptoms.

CONCLUSION

This case is unique because gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist administration was utilized as both a diagnostic and therapeutic modality.