Hyperandrogenism and Adrenocortical Tumors

Abstract

Androgen-secreting tumors are a rare cause of hyperandrogenism of adrenal origin. Although these tumors are identified in less than 2% of patients, the prevalence of adrenocortical carcinomas is relevant (2/3 of the cases). Those tumors are associated with simultaneous elevation of several androgens, mainly androstenedione, DHEAS, and testosterone, in more than half of the patients, as measured either by immunoassay or mass spectrometry. Despite the recent advances on the pathogenesis of adrenocortical tumors, to date no driver molecular event have been identified in those tumors. This chapter provides a comprehensive review of all studies published in the last 20 years on androgen-secreting tumors, with focus on epidemiology, clinical presentation, and hormonal profile.