Hypergonadism is a hormonal imbalance caused by various factors, including tumors affecting the adrenal glands. Symptoms are similar in males and females and may include early onset puberty, increased hair growth, and mood swings. Treatment options include hormone therapy and surgery.
Hypergonadism is a medical condition characterized by abnormally high levels of reproductive hormones such as estrogen or testosterone. There are a variety of potential causes of this type of hormonal imbalance, including genetic factors, autoimmune diseases, or the presence of cancer. Symptoms may include early onset of puberty, increased body hair, or increased sex drive.
Treatment options vary based on the underlying cause as well as the patient’s age and general health, and may include hormone therapy or surgery. Any specific questions or concerns about the development of hypergonadism in an individual situation should be discussed with a physician or other medical professional.
Regardless of the patient’s gender, the symptoms of hypergonadism are essentially the same for males and females. If this condition develops in childhood, it can cause early onset puberty. Increased hair growth is a common symptom of this condition and can involve the face, pubic area, and body. A person with this condition is likely to experience an increase in muscle mass and may be prone to developing skin rashes such as acne. Being a hormonal disorder, mood swings are often reported among those with this type of imbalance.
While there can be a multitude of causes for hypergonadism to develop, tumors affecting the adrenal glands are a major cause of this hormonal abnormality. The adrenal glands sit just above each kidney and are responsible for producing several types of hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. Most of these tumors are not cancerous, although a minor surgical procedure known as a biopsy may be done to be sure.
Hormone therapy is the standard form of treatment for hypergonadism sufferers. This can be a little tricky because it is much easier to add hormones to the body than to remove them. You may need to use a combination of hormones, and it may take a long time for your supervising physician to find the best combination and dosage for your individual situation.
If tumors of the adrenal cortex are found, doctors may choose to remove them, if possible, in an attempt to restore normal function to the adrenal glands. Occasionally, the affected gland may need to be partially or completely removed as well. After removal, a tissue sample from the tumor is sent to an outside laboratory for further testing. Radiation treatments or chemotherapy may be used if cancerous cells are found as a result of these tests.
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