In the mysterious realm of the human body, there exists a rare and enigmatic villain known as the Sertoli-Leydig cell tumour.
Unlike any ordinary adversary, this ovarian cancer possesses the power to release male hormones, causing a fascinating transformation within its victims – from a deepened voice to the sprouting of facial hair.
Join us on a captivating journey as we delve into the depths of this captivating tumor, uncovering its secrets and unraveling the stories it weaves.
sertoli-leydig cell tumour
The Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor (SLCT) is a rare form of cancer that primarily affects the ovaries in females.
It typically begins in one ovary and can cause symptoms such as a deep voice, enlarged clitoris, facial hair, loss in breast size, and cessation of menstrual periods.
Additionally, pain in the lower belly may be experienced due to the tumor pressing on nearby structures.
SLCT cells release a male sex hormone, which contributes to the development of these symptoms.
Key Points:
- Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor (SLCT) is a rare form of cancer that primarily affects the ovaries in females.
- Symptoms of SLCT include a deep voice, enlarged clitoris, facial hair, loss in breast size, and cessation of menstrual periods.
- The tumor can cause pain in the lower belly due to the pressure on nearby structures.
- SLCT cells release a male sex hormone, contributing to the development of these symptoms.
- SLCT typically begins in one ovary.
- SLCT is a rare form of cancer.
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Pro Tips:
1. Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors, also known as androblastomas, are extremely rare ovarian tumors that belong to a group of tumors called sex cord-stromal tumors.
2. Named after Enrico Sertoli and Friedrich Leydig, who were both esteemed scientists in the field of reproductive anatomy, the discovery of Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors dates back to the late 19th century.
3. These tumors typically occur in young women between the ages of 20 and 30, with very few cases reported in women who are older or younger.
4. Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors produce androgen hormones, leading to symptoms such as masculinization and virilization, which may include deepening of the voice, excessive hair growth, and clitoromegaly (enlarged clitoris).
5. In some extremely rare cases, Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors have been found to produce estrogen instead of androgens, resulting in gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue) in men or feminization in women.
Origin Of Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumours In Females
Sertoli-Leydig cell tumours (SLCT) are a rare type of ovarian cancer that only affects females. These tumors develop from abnormal growth of Sertoli cells and Leydig cells, which are normally found in the ovaries.
- Sertoli cells nurture and provide support to developing eggs.
- Leydig cells produce male sex hormones.
In SLCT, these cells undergo abnormalities and form tumors within the ovaries.
Rarity Of SLCT And Its Ovarian Impact
Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCT) are a rare form of ovarian cancer, comprising less than 0.5% of all cases. These tumors primarily occur in younger women, usually between 20 and 40 years old. Unlike other ovarian tumors, SLCT tends to affect only one ovary.
Male Sex Hormone Release And Associated Symptoms
SLCT cells have the ability to release male sex hormones, such as testosterone. This hormone release can lead to various symptoms in affected individuals. Women with SLCT may experience a deepening of their voice, enlargement of the clitoris, growth of facial hair, decrease in breast size, and cessation of menstrual periods. These symptoms are a result of the hormonal imbalance caused by the tumor.
Impact Of SLCT On Voice, Clitoris, Facial Hair, Breast Size, And Menstrual Cycles
The release of male sex hormones by SLCT cells can have significant impacts on a woman’s body. The voice may deepen due to the increased levels of testosterone. The clitoris can enlarge, and facial hair may begin to grow, similar to male pattern hair growth. Breast size may decrease as the tumor disrupts the normal hormonal balance. Lastly, the menstrual periods may stop completely, known as amenorrhea, due to the hormonal changes induced by the SLCT.
Lower Belly Pain Due To Tumor Pressure
The presence of an SLCT tumor in the ovary can lead to pain in the lower belly or pelvic area. This pain arises from the pressure exerted by the tumor on nearby structures, such as the uterus, fallopian tubes, or bladder. As the tumor grows, it can cause discomfort, and in severe cases, it may even cause blockages or inflammation in these adjacent structures.
- SLCT tumor in the ovary can cause pain in the lower belly or pelvic area
- Pressure exerted by the tumor can lead to discomfort
- Tumor growth can result in blockages or inflammation in nearby structures
Note: It is important to seek medical attention if experiencing persistent pain or related symptoms.
Typical Initiation Of SLCT In One Ovary
Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCT) typically originate in one ovary and have the potential to stay confined to that ovary. This sets SLCT apart from other types of ovarian cancers, which commonly metastasize to both ovaries or even beyond. Although the precise factors underlying the unilateral occurrence of SLCT are not completely elucidated, it implies the involvement of distinct elements in the formation of these tumors.
Male Sex Hormone Release And Its Effects On Voice, Clitoris, Facial Hair, Breast Size, And Menstrual Cycles
The release of male sex hormones by SLCT cells can result in various changes in a woman’s body:
- Deepening of the voice
- Enlargement of the clitoris
- Growth of facial hair
- Decrease in breast size
- Cessation of menstrual cycles
These symptoms can have a significant impact on a woman’s physical appearance, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
Lower Belly Pain Caused By SLCT
Lower belly pain or pelvic pain is a common symptom associated with SLCT. The tumor exerts pressure on nearby organs and structures, causing discomfort or pain. The location and severity of the pain vary depending on the tumor’s size and location. It can range from mild and intermittent to persistent and severe.
- The presence of the tumor results in lower belly pain or pelvic pain.
- The pain’s intensity and location depend on the size and location of the tumor.
- In some cases, the pain is mild and comes and goes.
- In other cases, the pain becomes severe and persistent.
“The exact location and severity of the pain can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor.”
Exclusive Origin Of SLCT In Ovaries
Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCT) are exclusively found in the ovaries and not in other reproductive organs. This distinct characteristic distinguishes SLCT from other types of tumors that may occur in different parts of the female reproductive system. The precise factors responsible for the development of SLCT in the ovaries are currently being investigated and are not yet fully understood.
- SLCT occurs only in the ovaries, not in other reproductive organs.
- Other tumors in the female reproductive system can arise in various locations.
- The specific factors contributing to the development of SLCT in the ovaries are still under investigation.
Male Sex Hormone Release And Well-Known Symptoms
The release of male sex hormones by SLCT cells is the hallmark characteristic of this type of tumor. The associated symptoms, such as voice deepening, clitoral enlargement, facial hair growth, breast size reduction, and the absence of menstrual cycles, are well-known indicators of an SLCT. Awareness of these symptoms can aid in the early detection and diagnosis of this rare ovarian tumor.
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You may need to know these questions about sertoli-leydig cell tumour
What is the survival rate for Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor?
Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors of the ovary have a relatively favorable prognosis, with a 5-year survival rate of 80% for both moderately-differentiated (grade 2) and poorly-differentiated (grade 3) tumors. This suggests that early detection and appropriate treatment can significantly increase the chances of survival in individuals with these types of tumors. However, individual cases may vary depending on other factors such as the extent of tumor spread and the response to treatment.
What are the symptoms of a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor?
Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors typically manifest with various symptoms related to both defeminization and progressive masculinization. In addition to experiencing abdominal pain, patients may exhibit signs such as the absence of menstrual periods (amenorrhea), a deepening of the voice, excess hair growth (hirsutism), a male pattern of hair growth, and enlargement of the clitoris (clitoromegaly). These symptoms reflect the hormonal imbalances caused by the tumor and highlight the diverse effects it can have on an individual’s physical characteristics.
Are Sertoli-Leydig tumors malignant?
Sertoli-Leydig tumors (SLCT) of the ovaries are typically considered low-grade malignancies. Although they are classified as malignant, they tend to have a better prognosis compared to other ovarian malignancies. SLCTs have a low metastatic potential and a favorable overall survival rate, especially in younger women. However, it is important to note that individual cases can vary, and some SLCTs may exhibit aggressive behavior with a higher tendency for metastasis. Therefore, close monitoring and appropriate treatment are still essential for optimal management of these tumors.
How do you treat a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor?
Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors, on the other hand, require a multidisciplinary approach for treatment. Surgery remains the primary treatment option, with the goal of complete resection of the tumor. However, the extent of surgery depends on the stage and aggressiveness of the tumor. In some cases, a conservative approach, such as a unilateral oophorectomy or removal of only the affected ovary, may be sufficient. In more advanced cases, a bilateral oophorectomy may be necessary to ensure complete removal of the tumor. Additionally, postoperative monitoring and follow-up care are crucial to detect any recurrence or metastasis.
Reference source
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/sertoli-leydig-cell-tumor
https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/ol.2015.3979
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4230071/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10074573/
