A rare case of virilizing ovarian steroid cell tumor in a 46 year-old woman: A case report and review of literature / Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

ABSTRACT

Virilization is the masculinization and enhancement of male secondary sexual characteristics in females. The etiology may be of adrenal or ovarian in origin. This case report shows a 46 year old woman who presented with defeminizing and virilizing symptoms. Further laboratory investigations revealed increased serum androgen levels and normal CT scan of the adrenals and kidneys. An ovarian mass was confirmed by transrectal ultrasonography. Following a total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingooophorectomy, histopathological and immunohistochemistry studies on the left ovarian mass confirmed an androgen-secreting, steroid-cell tumor, not otherwise specified (NOS). Serum testosterone values abruptly declined to normal levels within 1 month post-surgery. This paper likewise discusses an extensive review of literature regarding this rare ovarian tumor.