Androstenedione aromatization as a cause of gynecomastia in 11beta-hydroxylase and 21-hydroxylase deficiencies.
OBJECTIVE
To report two cases of gynecomastia that occurred in boys with 11beta-hydroxylase and 21-hydroxylase deficiency.


METHODS
We describe the physical findings and summarize the laboratory evaluation and treatment of two cases encountered in our medical practice.


RESULTS
Both of our patients (a 4-year-old boy and a 17-year-old boy) had extreme virilization and gynecomastia; on laboratory assessment, androstenedione and estrogen levels were high. Treatment with hydrocortisone was recommended.


CONCLUSIONS
Peripheral conversion of adrenal androgen to estrogen likely caused the feminizing syndrome in these patients.
Blackett MD
P R
PR
Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73190, USA.
Freeman MD
D A
DA