When genotype prevails: sexual female-to-male transformation in classical antiquity, recorded by Gaius Plinius Secundus and Phlegon.
Cases of sexual reassignment in classical antiquity, namely a female-to-male gender change occurring after childhood, are described in the literature. Textual evidence concerning these cases of androgynism and their symbolism as well as a comprehensive scholar analysis is provided in the present study. Μedical interpretation of these cases covers the entire spectrum of differential diagnosis of heterosexual puberty in pseudohermaphrodites characterized by genital ambiguity.
Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece.
Anastasia K
AK
Armeni
1st Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes Centre, "Alexandra" Hospital, Athens; Greece.
Vasiliki
V
Vasileiou
Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece.
Neoklis A
NA
Georgopoulos
D012734:Disorders of Sex Development / Q000266:history* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D005783:Gender Identity; D005838:Genotype; D049690:History, Ancient; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012741:Sexual Maturation / Q000502:physiology*