Home About Shands For Healthcare Professionals Newsroom ShandsConnect Index
Search:

Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor

Definition

Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor is a rare cancer of the ovaries. The cancer cells produce and release a male sex hormone.

Alternative Names

Arrhenoblastoma

Symptoms

The Sertoli cells, which are located in the male reproductive glands (the testes), feed sperm cells. The Leydig cells release a male sex hormone called testosterone. In men, some cancers of the testes can start in the Sertoli and Leydig cells.

Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor is a cancer that starts in the female ovaries. The cancer cells produce and release a male sex hormone, which may cause the women to develop male physical characteristics (virilization), including facial hair and a deep voice.


Review Date: 4/27/2007
Reviewed By: Rita Nanda, M.D., Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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.
adam.com