Hyperandrogenism in menopause: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Hyperandrogenism is an uncommon diagnosis in postmenopausal women. In this case, we report on a 69-year-old postmenopausal woman who presented with several months of worsening hirsutism of the face, neck, and chin, which was confirmed on examination. Laboratory testing revealed markedly elevated testosterone levels and typical post-menopausal gonadotropin levels. Transvaginal ultrasonography and pelvic and abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) failed to reveal an ovarian or adrenal abnormality. The patient was a poor surgical candidate and was counseled to start on gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist therapy. Administration of leuprolide resulted in a dramatic decline in testosterone levels. The patient reported significant “hot flashes”, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, and depression secondary to treatment, and patient discontinued leuprolide therapy 3 months after initiation. To our knowledge, this is the first case that describes a woman being treated with a GnRH agonist for hyperandrogenism subsequently discontinuing GnRH agonist treatment due to significant side-effects. This case also highlights the difficulty of prescribing appropriate but off-label use of expensive medications not covered by insurance in a senior population of limited income.