Symptoms and Diagnosis

Androgen excess primarily affects women during the reproductive years, from young adolescence to the start of menopause. Women with androgen excess are often overweight, and many have a family history of diabetes or insulin resistance or a close relative who is similarly affected by androgen excess. Many women with androgen excess have a condition known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Possible symptoms of androgen excess disorders are:

• Infertility
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Excessive hair growth and acne
• Obesity and insulin resistance
• Polycystic ovaries

Androgen deficiency usually occurs in women who have undergone removal of both ovaries or who are postmenopausal. Possible symptoms of androgen deficiency include:

• Decreased libido
• Fatigue
• Osteoporosis

Because the symptoms of androgen-related disorders can be signs of such a wide range of conditions, several exams and tests may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. The Center for Androgen-Related Research and Discovery offers comprehensive testing to accurately identify the cause of the patient's symptoms. Available diagnostic procedures include:

• Assessment for degree of hirsutism
• Assessment of body habitus
• Assessment of ovulatory function
• Genetic counseling
• Nutritional evaluation
• Physical examination
• Testing for insulin resistance and glucose tolerance
• Testing of adrenal (adrenocortical) function
• Testing of circulating hormones to determine androgen levels