A case of massive edema of the left ovary with virilization is described. Microscopically, massive interstitial edema with luteinization of theca and stromal cells was found. A few stromal cells contained Reinke-type crystalloids – an original observation. Peripheral concentrations of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and androstenedione were increased. Ratios of left ovarian vein to peripheral vein concentrations were increased for all these steroids as well as for estradiol and estrone, showing that the left ovary was the source of excess androgen and estrogen secretion. The patient showed impaired gonadotropin secretion in basal conditions and after an intravenous luteinizing-hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) stimulation test. After left oophorectomy, all steroids and gonadotropin response to LHRH returned to normal, and virilization regressed. Analysis of the endocrine changes associated with this ovarian tumor brings additional arguments for a primary role of hyperandrogenism in the impairment of gonadotropin secretion, as was also observed in other hyperandrogenic disorders including polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Keywords:
Massive ovarian edema, Reinke crystalloids, Hyperandrogenism, Impaired gonadotropin secretion
This content is only available via PDF.
© 1994 S. Karger AG, Basel
1994
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.