virilizaci

Virilization, sometimes encountered as virilizaci in some languages, is the development of male-typical physical characteristics in a person, usually due to exposure to androgens beyond the typical level for that sex. It most often refers to masculinization that occurs outside normal male puberty, particularly in individuals assigned female at birth, but can also describe normal male puberty when discussed in a broader context.

Causes and mechanisms include endogenous androgen excess, exogenous hormone exposure, and, less commonly, gonadal or adrenal tumors. Common conditions associated with virilization are polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Other potential causes are androgen-secreting tumors of the ovaries or adrenal glands, Cushing syndrome, and certain medications or anabolic agents. The underlying mechanism typically involves increased production or activity of androgens such as testosterone and DHEA-S, or increased sensitivity at androgen receptors.

Signs and symptoms can include hirsutism (excess body hair), deepening of the voice, clitoromegaly, increased muscle mass, acne, cessation or irregularities of menses, and male-pattern baldness. Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation supported by hormonal testing and imaging to identify the source, with karyotype testing considered in cases of ambiguous genitalia or discordant development.

Treatment targets the underlying cause and may involve glucocorticoids for CAH, surgical management of tumors, or antiandrogen therapies and hormone suppression for symptom control. Prognosis depends on the cause, duration, and timeliness of treatment; some changes may be reversible, while others may persist despite intervention.