Arrhenoblastoma of ovary

Definition

Arrhenoblastoma of the ovary is an ovarian tumor that releases the male hormone, testosterone, or other hormones.

Alternative Names

Stromal tumor; Gonadal stromal tumor; Sex cord tumor; Androblastoma

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

This is a rare tumor. It accounts for less than 0.5% of all ovarian tumors.

These tumors are found in women of all age groups, but are most common in young women.

Symptoms

This tumor releases male hormones, which causes the following symptoms in women:

• Deepening of the voice
• Increased hair on the face and body
• Increased size of the clitoris
• Male pattern baldness

Signs and tests

• Blood tests to check levels of hormones that may be released by the tumor
• CT scan of the pelvis and abdomen to see if the tumor has spread
• Ultrasound of the ovaries

Treatment

Surgery is the main treatment. If the cancer has spread, chemotherapy or radiation therapy should be considered.

Support Groups

You can ease the stress of illness by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See cancer - support group.

Expectations (prognosis)

The outcome of this disease depends on whether it has spread, and whether surgery can completely remove the tumor. The overall 5-year survival rate is 70 - 90%.

Arrhenoblastoma has a low chance of spreading. If the tumor is found early, the cure rate can be very good.

Complications

• Complications of surgery
• Masculine symptoms (virilization)
• Spread of the tumor if it is not completely removed

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you are a woman experiencing masculine symptoms, or you feel a lump near your ovaries.

Prevention

There is no good screening test. Getting a gynecological exam each year and recognizing masculine symptoms can help detect the disease.

Review Date: 6/10/2008

Reviewed by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and James R. Mason, MD, Oncologist, Director, Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program and Stem Cell Processing Lab, Scripps Clinic, Torrey Pines, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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