Rare virilizing tumor: ovarian steroid cell tumor, not otherwise specified: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Ovarian steroid cell tumors, not otherwise specified is a rare sex cord-stromal tumor. Almost 60% of all steroid cell tumors are categorized as not otherwise specified and represent less than 0.1% of all ovarian neoplasm. Some of them are endocrinologically active, producing virilization signs in young women. The recommended treatment is primarily surgical. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 20-year-old Mexican woman with secondary amenorrhea and virilization signs. She was treated with combined oral contraceptives from 13 years old, due to a misdiagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome. However, 4 months after stopping medication, amenorrhea and virilization signs worsened. Biochemically, she had high serum total testosterone and free testosterone levels, and a pelvic and transvaginal ultrasound followed by a pelvic tomography scan demonstrated a right adnexal tumor. She underwent right salpingo-oophorectomy and the histopathological and immunochemistry exams confirmed the diagnosis. The patient was followed for a year after surgery and until then, her menses were regular and she had no recurrence of virilization signs. CONCLUSION: The purpose of this case report is to alert physicians to rule out ovarian steroid cell tumor, not otherwise specified diagnosis in young women with increased testosterone after discarding common causes such as polycystic ovarian syndrome. A multidisciplinary team including a gynecologist, endocrinologist, radiologist, and pathologist should be involved for correct diagnosis at the proper time.

Structural and functional changes in rat uterus induced by neonatal androgenization.

Fetal or neonatal androgen exposure has a programming effect on ovarian function inducing a polycystic ovarian syndrome-like condition. Its effects on uterine structure and function are poorly studied. The aim of this work was to characterize the temporal course of changes in the rat uterine structure induced by neonatal exposure to aromatizable or not aromatizable androgens. Rats were daily treated with testosterone, dihydrotestosterone or vehicle during follicle assembly period (postnatal days 1 to 5). Uterine histoarchitecture, hormonal milieu, endometrial stromal collagen and capillary density were analyzed at prepubertal, pubertal and adult ages. Our data shows that neonatal androgen exposure induces early and long-lasting deleterious effects on uterine development, including altered adenogenesis and superficial epithelial alterations and suggest a role for altered serum estradiol levels in the maintenance and worsening of the situation. Our results suggest that alterations of the neonatal androgenic environment on the uterus could be responsible for alterations in the processes of implantation and maintenance of the embryo in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Carcinoma corticosuprarrenal virilizante en un niño / Virilizing adrenocortical carcinoma in a child

Introducción: Los tumores suprarrenales en niños son poco frecuentes y el carcinoma suprarrenal representa menos de un 10 %. En el prepúber, la manifestación más típica es el desarrollo de pubertad precoz. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas, los procederes diagnósticos y terapéuticos de un paciente con carcinoma adrenal en edad pediátrica. Presentación de caso: Paciente de 8 años, masculino y de piel blanca con antecedentes de salud. Acude a la consulta por crecimiento de vello pubiano y aumento del pene en longitud y grosor de aproximadamente 2 años de evolución. En el examen físico se constatan aumento de la velocidad de crecimiento y signos sugestivos de virilización (voz gruesa, vello axilar, vello sexual púbico y genitales externos estadio III de Tanner). Se realizaron estudios hormonales que corroboraron el hiperandrogenismo por secreción endógena autónoma, con niveles de gonadotropinas suprimidas, niveles de testosterona y dehidroepiandrosterona elevados. También se realizaron estudios imagenológicos que evidenciaron edad ósea acelerada y la existencia de un tumor. Se realizó una adrenalectomía izquierda y se confirmó por anatomía patológica el carcinoma corticosuprarrenal virilizante izquierdo en estadío 2. Inició un tratamiento con quimioterapia por dicho diagnóstico y actualmente se mantiene en seguimiento. Conclusiones: Los carcinomas corticosuprarrenales en niños son mayoritariamente funcionantes y constituyen una de las causas de pubertad precoz periférica. Estos son infrecuentes y agresivos, por lo que la realización de estudios genéticos en familias con síndromes hereditarios contribuiría a su diagnóstico precoz para un adecuado tratamiento y mejor pronóstico(AU)

Introduction: Adrenal tumors in children are rare and adrenal carcinoma represents less than the 10 percent. In the prepubescent, the most typical manifestation is the development of early puberty. Objective: Describe the clinical characteristics and diagnostic and therapeutic procedures of a patient with adrenal carcinoma in a pediatric age. Case presentation: 8-year-old male, white-skinned patient with a history of health conditions. He attentds to the consultation due to pubic hair growth and penis enlargement in length and thickness of approximately 2 years of evolution. Physical examination shows increased growth rate and signs suggestive to virilization (deep voice, axillary hair, pubic sexual hair and external genitalia in Tanner's stage III). Hormonal studies were carried out that corroborated hyperandrogenism by autonomic endogenous secretion, with suppressed gonadotropin levels, elevated testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone levels. Imaging studies were also performed that showed accelerated bone age and the existence of a tumor. A left adrenalectomy was performed and stage 2 left virilizing adrenocrotical carcinoma was confirmed by pathological anatomy studies. He began chemotherapy treatment for this diagnosis and is currently being followed up. Conclusions: Adrenocortical carcinomas in children are mostly functioning and are one of the causes of peripheral early puberty. These are uncommon and aggressive, so genetic studies in families with hereditary syndromes would contribute to their early diagnosis for adequate treatment and better prognosis(AU)

Carcinoma adrenal virilizante en una adolescente: reporte de caso / Virilizing adrenal carcinoma in an adolescent: case report

Los tumores suprarrenales virilizante son infrecuentes y representan 5-6% de los tumores de esas glándulas1. Pueden secretar diferentes andrógenos como dehidroepiandrosterona sulfato (DHEAS), androstenediona y testosterona. Las características clínicas dependen de la edad de presentación; en niños pueden determinar pubertad precoz y en mujeres en edad fértil ocasionar hirsutismo, amenorrea o ciclos oligomenorreicos y diversos grados de virilización2. Los carcinomas adrenocorticales son tumores raros y la incidencia es aproximadamente uno a dos por millón de habitantes/año3,4. Los exámenes de imagen como la tomografía o la resonancia confirman el origen suprarrenal, valoran la presencia de metástasis y definen la conducta terapéutica5. La presentación inicial en pacientes pediátricos mayoritariamente es con virilización6 y aproximadamente el 50% de los pacientes adultos con carcinoma adrenal tienen un estadio de la enfermedad relativamente avanzado7. El tratamiento de elección es la cirugía y sigue siendo la mejor esperanza para la supervivencia a largo plazo8. El pronóstico habitual para el carcinoma adrenocortical es generalmente malo con una supervivencia global a 5 años de 20 a 25%5 en adultos, pero en niños y adolescentes la supervivencia puede llegar al 100%9. Se presenta el caso de una paciente con fenotipo totalmente masculino con diagnóstico de carcinoma adrenal virilizante que comienza en la infancia y se diagnostica en la adolescencia.

Virilizing adrenal tumors are uncommon and represent 5-6% on tumors of these glands1. They can secrete different androgens such as dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), androstenedione, and testosterone. Clinical features depend on the age of presentation; in children they can determine precocious puberty and in women of childbearing age cause hirsutism, amenorrhea or oligomenorrheic cycles and various degrees of virilization2. Diagnosis consists of clinical evidence of hyperandrogenism, accompanied by an increase in androgens in the blood, especially DHEAS, whose origin is mainly adrenal. Adrenocortical carcinomas are rare and the incidence is approximately one to two per million inhabitants/year3,4. Imaging tests such as tomography or resonance confirm the adrenal origin, assess the presence of metastases and define the therapeutic approach5. In initial presentation in most pediatric patients is with virilization6 and approximately 50% adult's patients with adrenal carcinoma have a relatively advanced stage of the disease7. The treatment of choice is surgery and is the best hope for long-term survival. The usual prognosis for adrenocortical carcinoma is generally poor with a 5-year overall survival of 20 to 25%5 in adults, but in children and adolescent's survival can reach 100%9. We present the case of a patient with a totally male phenotype diagnosed with virilizing adrenal carcinoma that begins in childhood and is diagnosed in adolescence.

Virilization and metabolic disease in postmenopausal women related to ovarian hyperplasia and hypertecosis / [Virilización y enfermedad metabólica en mujer postmenopáusica relacionado a hiperplasia e hipertecosis ovárica]

During menopausal transition, mild clinical signs of hyperandrogenism may appear as part of the normal aging process, but the development of frank virilization suggests a specific source of androgen excess. In this context, androgen-secreting tumors at both adrenal and ovarian levels should be ruled out. We present the case of a 51-year-old postmenopausal woman with signs of 12 month period virilization, associated with personal history of type 2 diabetes and arterial hypertension, poorly managed in the past year. Laboratory tests showed elevation of serum androgen levels and hyperinsulinemia. Images were requested, revealing both enlarged homogeneous and solid ovaries, with preserved adrenal glands, which led to suspicion of a possible thecal hyperplasia of the ovarian stroma. Laparoscopic bilateral adnexectomy was performed and the pathological report confirmed the presumptive diagnosis. One month later after surgery, serum testosterone levels returned to values ​​close to spected for a postmenopausal woman. Finding the source of virilization in postmenopausal women is challenging, and they are usually associated with rare pathologies. A detailed medical history is essential to differentiate the progressive development of virilization that characterizes benign causes from the rapid progression that characterizes malignant tumors. The adequate interpretation of laboratory tests with complementary images, as well as looking for the association of pathologies causing elevated cardiovascular risk such as diabetes and hypertension are essential to establish a right diagnosis and treatment.

Durante la transición menopáusica pueden aparecer signos clínicos leves de hiperandrogenismo, como parte del proceso de envejecimiento normal, pero el desarrollo de virilización franca sugiere una fuente específica de exceso de andrógenos debiendo descartar la presencia de tumores secretores de andrógenos tanto a nivel adrenal como ovárico. Se presenta un caso de una mujer de 51 años postmenopáusica con signos de virilización de 12 meses de evolución, asociado a antecedente personal de diabetes tipo 2 e hipertensión arterial, de mal manejo en el último año. Las pruebas de laboratorio mostraron una franca elevación de los niveles de andrógeno sérico e hiperinsulinemia asociada. Las imágenes solicitadas evidenciaron ambos ovarios aumentados de tamaño de aspecto homogéneo y sólido, con glándulas adrenales de aspecto conservado, lo que hizo sospechar de una posible hiperplasia tecal del estroma ovárico. Se realizó una anexectomía bilateral por laparoscopia, cuya anatomía patológica confirmó la presunción diagnóstica. Los dosajes de testosterona sérica al mes de la cirugía retornaron a valores cercanos a la normalidad para una mujer postmenopáusica. El diagnóstico causal de virilización en mujeres posmenopáusicas es un desafío, y por lo general están asociadas con patologías poco frecuentes. Una historia clínica detallada es fundamental para diferenciar el desarrollo progresivo de virilización que caracteriza las causas benignas de la rápida progresión que caracteriza a los tumores malignos. La interpretación de pruebas correctas de laboratorio con imágenes complementarias, así como la búsqueda de antecedentes de riesgo cardiovascular como la diabetes y la hipertensión asociadas son fundamentales para establecer un correcto diagnóstico y tratamiento.

Neonatal androgenization in rats affects oocyte maturation.

Androgens are relevant in order to achieve a normal growth and maturation of the follicle and oocyte, since both excess and absence of androgens may affect the correct ovarian function. The current study analyzes the impact of neonatal androgenization in the first ovulation and oocyte maturation in response to exogenous gonadotrophin stimulation. Neonatal rats were daily treated with testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, or vehicle during follicle assembly period (days 1 to 5). At juvenile period, rats were stimulated sequentially with PMSG and hCG. Ovulation, ovarian histology, hormonal milieu, morphological characteristics of meiotic spindle, and in vitro fertilization rate in oocytes were analyzed. Our data shows that oocytes from androgenized rats displayed a major proportion of aberrant spindles and altered meiotic advance that control animals. These alterations were accompanied with an increase in both fertilization rate and aberrant embryos after 48 h of culture. Our findings showed a direct impact of neonatal androgens on oocyte development; their effects may be recognized at adulthood, supporting the idea of a programming effect exerted by neonatal androgens. These results could be relevant to explain the low fertility rate seen in polycystic ovary syndrome patients after in vitro fertilization procedures.

A case series of infants with increased VAMP7 gene dosage at birth and virilization defects.

BACKGROUND: Genitourinary disorders are the most frequent congenital defects in newborns; however, little is known about their etiology. Several studies have been carried out to find genetic risk factors in the development of these malformations. The expression of VAMP7 is found in testes, epididymis, seminal vesicles, prostatic tissues, penis, and urethra. Alterations in gene dose of VAMP7 were recently reported in a subset of male patients initially identified clinically by the presence of congenital genitourinary disorders. In 2016, the authors developed a diagnostic algorithm for early detection of sex chromosome aneuploidies by quantifying the SHOX, VAMP7, and SRY gene dose in newborns by qPCR using dried blood spot (DBS) samples. OBJECTIVE: Correlate the increased gene dose of VAMP7, obtained by qPCR using DBS, with genitourinary congenital defects attributable to disorders in virilization and verify the increased gene dose by microarrays. STUDY DESIGN: Samples that only presented increased VAMP7 gene dosage were selected from a previously analyzed group of 5088 males in which the early detection of sex chromosomes aneuploidies was performed. Eight males were found with an increased gene dose of VAMP7 (relative quantitation > 1.3) and were called in for a complete clinical evaluation aimed at the identification of genitourinary anomalies, qPCR and microarrays. RESULTS: Eight males from 5088 samples were identified with increased VAMP7 gene dosage of which six patients were clinically evaluated, of which 50% were identified with alterations in genital development (bilateral cryptorchidism, unilateral cryptorchidism, and glandular hypospadias) and speech delay, while the rest presented different types of atopy. DISCUSSION: Tannour-Louet et al. postulated on 2014 that the duplication of the Xq28 region, specifically of VAMP7, plays a role in the human masculinization disorders of the urogenital tract. The study was based on array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) results performed to 116 males with disorders of sexual differentiation. In the present study, the patients were initially selected due to an increased gene dose of VAMP7 detected by qPCR, then the clinical evaluation and the aCGH were performed, inverse to what was reported previously but with similar percentages between both studies. CONCLUSION: In this work, the authors report cases of cryptorchidism, hypospadias, language delay and atopy in male preschoolers initially identified because they have an increased gene dose of VAMP7.

Suicídio e masculinidades: uma análise por meio do gênero e das sexualidades / Suicidio y masculinidades: un análisis a través del género y de las sexualidades / Suicide and masculinities: an analysis through gender and sexualities

RESUMO. A epidemiologia brasileira do comportamento suicida, no que tange ao gênero, é análoga à maioria dos países no cenário internacional, de acordo com a pesquisa da Organização Mundial de Saúde, envolvendo 172 nações. No Brasil, o número de óbitos por suicídio é de três a quatro vezes maior entre os homens e, além disso, pesquisas revelam que a prevalência de tentativas de autoextermínio pode ser maior na população sexo-diversa masculina. A partir dos dados estatísticos que inferem questões de gênero e de sexualidade relacionadas ao sofrimento psíquico de homens, a presente pesquisa teve como escopo analisar qualitativamente, por meio das teorias das masculinidades, relatos biográficos de homens gays, bissexuais e heterossexuais que já manifestaram o comportamento suicida. O intuito foi dar enfoque nos contextos de sofrimento que levaram os sujeitos às ideações e tentativas de autoextermínio. Ao final, as categorias identificadas apontam para similaridades e distinções nas narrativas de cada grupo de orientação sexual e evidenciam a forma como a não correspondência à masculinidade hegemônica se expressa nas sexualidades estudadas.

RESUMEN La epidemiología brasileña del comportamiento suicida, con respecto al género, es análoga a la mayoría de los países en el escenario internacional, de acuerdo con la investigación de la Organización Mundial de la Salud, con 172 naciones. En Brasil, el número de muertes por suicidio es de tres a cuatro veces mayor entre los hombres y, además, investigaciones revelan que la prevalencia de intentos de suicídio puede ser mayor en la población sexodiversa masculina. Con base en los datos estadísticos que infieren las cuestiones de género y sexualidad relacionadas con el sufrimiento psicológico de los hombres, la presente investigación tuvo como objetivo analizar cualitativamente, a través de las teorías de la masculinidad, los relatos biográficos de hombres homosexuales, bisexuales y heterosexuales que ya manifestaron conductas suicidas. La intención fue centrarse en los contextos de sufrimiento que llevaron a los participantes a ideas e intentos de autodestrucción. Al final, las categorías identificadas señalan similitudes y distinciones en las narrativas de cada grupo de orientación sexual y muestran cómo la falta de correspondencia con la masculinidad hegemónica se expresa en las sexualidades estudiadas.

ABSTRACT. The Brazilian suicidal behavior epidemiology, in what concerns to gender, is analogous to most countries in the international scenario, according to the World Health Organization survey, with 172 nations. In Brazil, the number of suicide deaths is three to four times higher among men and, in addition, research shows that the prevalence of self-extermination attempts may be higher in the male sex-diverse population. Based on the statistical data that infer gender and sexuality issues related to the psychological suffering of men, the present research aimed to qualitatively analyze, through the theories of masculinities, the biographical reports of gay, bisexual and heterosexual men who have already manifested suicidal behavior. The intention was to focus on the contexts of suffering that led the participants to ideations and attempts at self-extermination. In the end, the categories identified point to similarities and distinctions in the narratives of each sexual orientation group and show how the non-correspondence to hegemonic masculinity is expressed in the studied sexualities.

Psychosexual Aspects, Effects of Prenatal Androgen Exposure, and Gender Change in 46,XY Disorders of Sex Development.

CONTEXT: In 46,XY disorders of sexual development (DSD) patients, several factors may affect psychosexual development, leading to gender identity discrepancy and gender change later in life. Prenatal sexual steroid exposure and external genital virilization are considered to influence human psychosexual development, but their roles not completely understood yet. DESIGN: A total of 144 individuals (18 to 60 years of age) with a clinical/molecular diagnosis of 46,XY DSD from a single tertiary center were enrolled. Psychosexual outcomes (gender role, gender identity, and sexual orientation) were assessed using questionnaires and psychological test. The Sinnecker score was used for genital virilization measurement. Prenatal androgen exposure was estimated according to 46,XY DSD etiology. RESULTS: We found a positive association between prenatal androgen exposure and male psychosexual outcomes. Alternatively, prenatal estrogen exposure, age of gonadectomy, and the degree of external genital virilization did not influence any psychosexual outcome. There were 19% (n = 27) with gender change, which was associated with prenatal androgen exposure (P < 0.001) but not with the external genital virilization. The median age of gender change was 15 years, but most of the patients reported the desire for gender change earlier. CONCLUSIONS: Prenatal androgen exposure influenced psychosexual development in 46,XY DSD favoring male psychosexuality in all psychosexual outcomes, whereas the degree of external genital virilization did not influence these outcomes. The organizational effect of sexual steroids on psychosexuality at puberty appears to be weak in comparison with the prenatal effects. Prenatal androgen exposure also influenced female-to-male gender change frequency. All 46,XY DSD conditions with prenatal androgen exposure must be followed for gender issues in their management.

Tumor ovárico virilizante en mujer postmenopáusica: reporte de caso / Ovarian virilizing tumor in postmenopausal woman: case report

Ovarian steroid-producing tumors are infrequent entities and are potentially malignant. Testosterone is the hormone that rises more frequently and is associated mostly with signs of virilization. We present the clinical case of a 67-year-old postmenopausal woman who came to the clinic for alopecia, with high levels of testosterone and ovarian mass by ultrasound. Surgical treatment was indicated. The main diagnostic aspects are presented.

Los tumores productores de esteroides ováricos constituyen entidades infrecuentes y son potencialmente malignos. La testosterona es la hormona que se eleva con más frecuencia y se asocia en su mayoría a signos de virilización. Se presenta el caso clínico de una mujer postmenopáusica de 67 años que acude a consulta por alopecia, con niveles elevados de testosterona y masa ovárica por ecografía. Se indicó tratamiento quirúrgico. Se presentan los principales aspectos diagnósticos.

Personalidad y androgenización perinatal en mujeres / Personalidade e androgenização perinatal em mulheres / Personality and perinatal androgenization in women

Objetivo: indagar la influencia de la androgenización pe-rinatal sobre la personalidad en 60 mujeres con edades entre 18 y 42 años de la Región de Cuyo, Argentina.La muestra fue intencional, no aleatoria. Instrumentos: test MillonInventory of PersonalityStyles (MIPS); y la medida y relación de longitud de los dedos (RLD) 2D:4D de la mano derecha. Se formaron dos grupos de compara-ción: G1 con valores de RLD entre el mínimo y el valor medio, y G2 con mediciones entre el valor medio y el valor máximo. Resultados: La comparación de medias indicó diferencias entre G1 y G2 para las bipolaridades Introversión; Conformismo y Control. G1 presentó co-rrelaciones negativas entre las escalas individualidad (r=-0,31; z=0,05) e intuición (r=-0,33; z=0,04*) con RLD. Para G2, valores superiores de RLD, no hubo correlacio-nes. Conclusiones: el Individualismo; la Introversión; la Intuición; el Conformismo y el Control parecen ser más sensibles a los niveles androgénicos perinatales que el resto de las bipolaridades de la personalidad.

Objective: to investigate the influence of perinatal andro-genization on personality in 60 women between the ages of 18 and 42 in the Region of Cuyo, Argentina.The sample was intentional, not random. Instruments: Millon Inventory of Personality Styles test (MIPS); and the measurement and ratio of finger length (RLD) 2D:4D of the right hand. Two compari-son groups were formed: G1 with RLD values between the minimum and the mean value, and G2 with measurements between the mean and the maximum value.Results: Comparison of means indicated differences between G1 and G2 for the bipolari-ties of Introversion; Conformism and Control. G1 showed negative correlations between individuality (r=-0,31; z=0,05) and intuition (r=-0,33; z=0,04*) scales with RLD.For G2, higher RLD values, there were no correlations.Conclusions: Individualism; Introversion; Intuition; Conformism and Control seem to be more sensitive to perinatal androgenic levels than the rest of the bipolarities of personality.

Objetivo: investigar a influência da androgenização perinatal na personalidade de 60 mulheres entre 18 e 42 anos na região de Cuyo, Argentina. A amostra foi intencional, não aleatória. Instrumentos: Teste Millon Inventory of Personality Styles (MIPS); e a medida e a proporção do comprimento do dedo (RLD) 2D: 4D da mão direita. Foram formados dois grupos de comparação: G1 com valores de RLD entre o valor mínimo e o valor médio e G2 com medidas entre a média e o valor máximo.Resultados: A comparação das médias indicou diferenças entre G1 e G2 para as bipolaridades da Introversão; Conformismo e Controle. O G1 apresentou correlações negativas entre as escalas de individualidade (r = -0,31; z = 0,05) e intuição (r = -0,33; z = 0,04 *) com o RLD. Para o G2, maiores valores de RLD foram observados sem correlações.Conclusões: Individualismo; Introversão; Intuição; O conformismo e o controle parecem ser mais sensíveis aos níveis androgênicos perinatais do que o restante das bipolaridades da personalidade.

Prenatal Androgenization of Ewes as a Model of Hirsutism in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

The main clinical feature associated with hyperandrogenism in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in humans is hirsutism, where hair increases its length, pigmentation, and particularly its diameter. Currently, it is not known whether PCOS animal models also exhibit changes in the hair. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the wool characteristics in sheep prenatally androgenized (PA) with testosterone propionate. After 4 and 13 months of life, wool was collected from the top of the shoulder of both females and males (both androgenized and controls). The offspring sheep were followed for up to 19 months of life to evaluate testosterone and androstenedione serum levels by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, determine insulin and glucose response to intravenous glucose tolerance test, and address estrus cyclicity during the second breeding season. PA male animals showed a reduction in wool fiber diameter at 4 months of age compared with controls (P = 0.02) but not at 13 months, whereas PA females showed increased hair diameter at 13 months (P = 0.002), with no difference at 4 months. No substantial changes in other hair parameters (length, color, and medullation) were identified. In addition, increased levels of serum testosterone were observed in PA female sheep compared with controls at 12 months (P = 0.03). Our results indicate for the first time, to our knowledge, that changes in wool fiber diameter observed in PA ewes replicate, at the translational level, the increase in hair diameter in hirsute women with PCOS.

Gender Identity and Sexual Function in 46,XX Patients with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Raised as Males.

In individuals with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and 46,XX karyotype, androgens produced by the adrenal glands during the intrauterine development promote virilization of the genitals, which may even result in the development of a well-formed penis. Some of these children with late diagnosis are registered as males after birth. After obtaining approval from the internal review board, we evaluated gender identity and sexual function in four 46,XX severely virilized patients with CAH, who were originally registered and raised as males, assisted in our Disorders of Sexual Development Clinic. The evaluation consisted of questionnaires to assess gender identity and sexual activity and interview with the multidisciplinary team that provides care for these patients. The patients underwent surgery to remove uterus, ovaries, and remaining vaginal structures, in addition to implantation of testicular prosthesis and correction of hypospadias, when necessary. All four patients have developed a clear male gender identity, and when evaluated for sexual activity, they have reported having erections, libido, orgasms, and sexual attraction to women only. Two of these 4 patients had satisfactory sexual intercourses when assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire. The other two patients who never had sexual intercourse reported not having a partner for sexual activity; one is 18 years old, and the other is 14 years old. This study showed that this group of 46,XX severely virilized patients with CAH, registered and raised as males, adapted well to the assigned male gender, with satisfactory sexual function in patients who had sexual intercourse.

Treatment of inherited bone marrow failure syndromes beyond transplantation.

Despite significant progress in transplantation by the addition of alternative hematopoietic stem cell sources, many patients with inherited bone marrow failure syndromes are still not eligible for a transplant. In addition, the availability of sequencing panels has significantly improved diagnosis by identifying cryptic inherited cases. Androgens are the main nontransplant therapy for bone marrow failure in dyskeratosis congenita and Fanconi anemia, reaching responses in up to 80% of cases. Danazol and oxymetholone are more commonly used, but virilization and liver toxicity are major adverse events. Diamond-Blackfan anemia is commonly treated with corticosteroids, but most patients eventually become refractory to this treatment and toxicity is limiting. Growth factors still have a role in inherited cases, especially granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in congenital neutropenias. Novel therapies are warranted and thrombopoietin receptor agonists, leucine, quercetin, and novel gene therapy approaches may benefit inherited cases in the future.

The impact of postnatal leuprolide acetate treatment on reproductive characteristics in a rodent model of polycystic ovary syndrome.

In this study, a GnRH agonist, leuprolide acetate (LA), was given as a single depot injection before 48 h of life to Wistar female rats allotted to prenatal (E16-18) and postnatal androgenization (day 5 of life) by the use of testosterone propionate, looking for reproductive endpoints. Remarkably, a single injection of LA increased the estrus cycles in the postnatal group (PostN) from 0% to 25% of the estrus cycles in the postnatal LA treated group (PostN L). LA also reduced the serum testosterone levels and cysts and atretic follicles in PostN L in contrast with rats (>100 days) from the PostN group (p = 0.04). Prenatally androgenized rats (PreN) exhibited significant modifications in the hypothalamic genes, such as Gnrh. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to show that blockage of the GnRH axis with leuprolide acetate depot prevented the development of typical features (anovulation, cysts, atretic follicles) in a postnatal testosterone propionate rat model of PCOS.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency: description of a new mutation, R384X.

CASE DESCRIPTION: It is presented the phenotype of a new compound heterozygous mutation of the genes R384X and Q356X encoding the enzyme of 11-beta-hydroxylase. CLINICAL FINDINGS: Severe virilization, peripheral hypertension, and early puberty. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: Managed with hormone replacement therapy (corticosteroid) and antihypertensive therapy (beta-blocker), resulting in the control of physical changes and levels of arterial tension. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: According to the phenotypic characteristics of the patient, it is inferred that the R384X mutation carries an additional burden on the Q356X mutation, with the latter previously described as a cause of 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency. The description of a new genotype, as in this case, expands the understanding of the hereditary burden and deciphers the various factors that lead to this pathology as well as the other forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), presenting with a broad spectrum of clinical presentations. This study highlights the importance of a complete description of the patient's CAH genetic profile as well as their parents' genetic profile.

DESCRIPCIÓN DEL CASO: Se presenta el fenotipo de una nueva mutación heterocigota compuesta en los genes Q356X y R384X que codifican la enzima 11-beta-hidroxilada. HALLAZGOS CLÍNICOS: Virilización severa, pubertad precoz periférica e hipertensión. TRATAMIENTO Y RESULTADOS: Manejo con terapia de reemplazo hormonal con corticoide y antihipertensivo con beta-bloqueador con lo que se logró controlar los cambios físicos y los niveles de tensión arterial. RELEVANCIA CLÍNICA: Según las características fenotípicas del paciente se infiere que la mutación R384X acarrea una carga adicional a la mutación Q356X, esta última descrita como causa de deficiencia de 11-beta-hidroxilasa. La descripción de nuevos genotipos, como en este caso, permite ampliar la comprensión de la carga hereditaria y descifrar los diversos factores que llevan a que esta patología, así como las demás formas de hiperplasia suprarrenal congénita (HSC), se presenten con un amplio espectro de cuadros clínicos. Esto permite resaltar la importancia de una descripción completa del perfil genético del paciente con HSC y de sus padres.

A Single Nucleotide Variant in the Promoter Region of 17ß-HSD Type 5 Gene Influences External Genitalia Virilization in Females with 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency.

BACKGROUND: In 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD), there is an influence of genotype on the severity of external genitalia virilization. However, females carrying mutations predicting a similar impairment of enzymatic activity present a wide variability of genital phenotypes. In such cases, interindividual variability in genes related to the sex steroid hormone pathway could play a role. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of POR, HSD17B5 and SRD5A2 variants on the severity of external genitalia virilization in 21-OHD females. DESIGN AND PATIENTS: Prader stages were evaluated in 178 females with 21-OHD from a multicenter study. The 21-OHD genotypes were divided into two groups according to their severity: severe and moderate. The influences of the POR p.A503V, HSD17B5 c.-71A>G, HSD17B5 c.-210A>C, and SRD5A2 p.A49T and p.V89L variants on the degree of external genitalia virilization were analyzed. RESULTS: The POR p.A503V, HSD17B5 c.-71A>G, HSD17B5 c.-210A>C, and SRD5A2 p.A49T and p.V89L variants were found in 25, 33, 17, 1, and 31% of the alleles, respectively. In uni- and multilinear regression, HSD17B5 c.-210A>C has a significant influence on the degree of external genitalia virilization. This variant was also identified with a higher frequency in the most severely virilized females. CONCLUSION: We demonstrated that a variant in the promoter region of HSD17B5 related to fetal androgen synthesis influences the genital phenotype in 21-OHD females.

Tumor de células de Leydig do ovário associado a virilização em paciente na pós-menopausa / Ovarian Leydig cell tumor associated with virilization in postmenopausal patient

Tumores de células de Leydig são neoplasias de células esteroides e correspondem a menos de 0,5% dos tumores ovarianos. Ocorrem mais comumente na pós-menopausa e se apresentam com virilização em metade dos casos. Relatamos o caso de uma mulher de 53 anos com história de virilização. A investigação com ressonância magnética demonstrou altos níveis séricos de testosterona e um nódulo de 2 cm no ovário direito. A paciente foi submetida a ooforectomia bilateral, e a análise patológica confirmou o diagnóstico de tumor de células de Leydig do ovário direito. Um dia após a cirurgia, o nível sérico de testosterona se normalizou. Em quatro meses, a paciente apresentou nível sérico normal de testosterona e regressão parcial da alopecia. Em mulheres pós-menopáusicas com quadro de virilização progressiva, deve-se suspeitar de neoplasias ovarianas produtoras de andrógenos (AU)

Leydig cell tumors are tumors of the steroids cells and represent less than 0.5% of ovarian tumors. They occur most often in postmenopausal women and present with virilization in half of the cases. We report the case of a 53-year-old woman with virilization history. Magnetic resonance imaging showed high serum testosterone levels and a 2-cm nodule in the right ovary. The patient underwent bilateral oophorectomy, and the pathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of Leydig cell tumor in the right ovary. The day after surgery, serum testosterone level was normalized. In four months, the patient had normal serum testosterone level and partial regression of alopecia. In postmenopausal women with progressive virilization, ovarian neoplasms producing androgens should be investigated (AU)

Tumores virilizantes del ovario: presentación de dos casos manejados mediante cirugía por monopuerto / Virilizing tumors of the ovary: presentation of two cases managed by single-port surgery

Los tumores virilizantes, corresponden al 1% de todos los tumores funcionales del ovario. Estos tipos de tumores virilizantes se originan de las células pluri-potenciales del estroma ovárico, tienen la capacidad de secretar 17-hidroxiprogesterona, testosterona y androstenediona, desencadenando hiperandrogenismo clínico. Son catalogados como de bajo potencial maligno, con un patrón de crecimiento lento, bien diferenciados, diagnosticados en su mayoría en estadío I y II, de buen pronóstico y típicos de mujeres en edad reproductiva. El objetivo de esta comunicación es presentar dos casos clínicos con diagnóstico de tumor virilizante de ovario, tratadas con cirugía laparoscópica por mono puerto.

Virilizing tumors, corresponding to 1% of all functional ovarian tumors. Those type of virilizing tumors originate from pluripotential ovarian stromal cells and have the capacity to secrete 17-hydroxyprogesterone, testosterone and androstenedione, triggering clinical hyperandrogenism. They are classified as low malignant potential, well differentiated, with a pattern of slow growth, mostly diagnosed in stage I and II, with good prognosis and typical of women of reproductive age. The aim of this paper is to present two cases of virilizing ovarian tumor treated by mono port laparoscopic surgery.