The syndrome of hyperandrogenism in women is an increase in the female body level or activity of male hormones above normal values, as well as related changes.
Symptoms of hyperandrogenism in women
These include:
- hirsutism (the appearance of excessive amounts of hair on the body and face according to the male type);
- acne (acne on the face);
- loss of hair ;
- psychoemotional disorders;
- coarsening of the voice;
- a change in the physique (widening of the shoulders, narrowing of the thighs);
- excess fat deposition;
- violation of menstrual function;
- complication of labor and premature interruption;
- infertility.
The causes of hyperandrogenism in women
The syndrome of hyperandrogenism can be divided into the following groups, depending on the genesis.
- Hyperandrogenia of ovarian genesis. It develops in the syndrome of polycystic ovaries (PCOS). This disease is characterized by the formation of multiple cysts in the ovaries, which leads to excessive production of male sex hormones, disruption of menstrual function and the possibility of conception. In this condition, uterine bleeding is not excluded. Most often this syndrome is combined with a violation of sensitivity to insulin. In addition, this type of hyperandrogenism can develop in ovarian tumors that produce androgens.
- Hyperandrogenism of adrenal origin. In the first place here is the congenital dysfunction of the adrenal cortex (VDKN). It accounts for about half of all cases of hyperandrogenism. In the development of the disease plays the role of a congenital defect in the enzymes of the adrenal cortex. The classical form of VDKN is found in girls in the first months of life, the nonclassical manifests itself most often during puberty. Tumors of the adrenal glands are also the cause of the syndrome.
- Hyperandrogenia of mixed genesis. It occurs when combined adrenal and ovarian dysfunction, as well as other endocrine disorders: diseases of the pituitary and hypothalamus, hypothyroidism of the thyroid gland. To this disease can result and uncontrolled reception of hormonal preparations (in particular, corticosteroids) and tranquilizers.