Overproductive ovaries
If the ovaries produce too much androgen (hormones such as
testosterone) a woman may develop male characteristics. This
ovarian imbalance can be caused by tumors in the ovaries or adrenal
glands, or polycystic ovarian disease. Virilization may include
growth of excess body and facial hair, amenorrhea (loss of
menstrual period) and changes in body contour.
Review Date: 6/8/2008
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief; Associate Professor
of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts
General Hospital.
The information provided herein should not be used during any
medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical
condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for
diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911
for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for
information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those
other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the
information contained herein is strictly prohibited.