Question 1

What is the Meaning of Clitoromegaly?

Accepted Answer

Clitoromegaly refers to the abnormal enlargement of the clitoris, a primary female external genital organ. This condition is characterized by a clitoral size exceeding standard anatomical measurements for age and pubertal status, indicating a need for medical evaluation.

Question 2

What is the Context of Clitoromegaly?

Accepted Answer

Clitoromegaly often arises from hormonal imbalances, particularly androgen excess. The clitoris, an androgen-sensitive organ, undergoes hypertrophy when exposed to elevated circulating androgens like testosterone or dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS). This condition is pertinent to reproductive endocrinology and developmental biology.

Question 3

What is the Significance of Clitoromegaly?

Accepted Answer

The presence of clitoromegaly holds significant clinical importance, often signaling an underlying endocrine disorder. Its recognition prompts diagnostic investigations for conditions such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, polycystic ovary syndrome, or androgen-producing tumors. Early identification allows timely intervention, potentially mitigating further virilization and addressing associated metabolic or reproductive health concerns, improving patient well-being.

Question 4

What is the Mechanism of Clitoromegaly?

Accepted Answer

The mechanism of clitoromegaly primarily involves direct androgen action on androgen receptors within clitoral stromal and erectile tissues. Elevated systemic or local androgen concentrations stimulate cellular proliferation and hypertrophy, leading to increased clitoral size. This process is analogous to androgen-dependent growth observed in male external genitalia during development.

Question 5

What is the Application of Clitoromegaly?

Accepted Answer

In clinical practice, clitoromegaly is a key diagnostic feature in conditions characterized by hyperandrogenism. It is common in individuals with classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia, often present at birth or becoming apparent in early childhood. It also presents in some cases of severe polycystic ovary syndrome or androgen-secreting tumors, guiding clinicians toward specific diagnostic pathways and management protocols, which may involve hormonal regulation or surgical intervention.

Question 6

What is the Metric of Clitoromegaly?

Accepted Answer

Assessment of clitoromegaly typically involves careful physical examination, measuring clitoral size, specifically the glans and shaft, using a ruler or caliper. The Prader scale for genital virilization is a standardized tool to grade enlargement. Serum androgen levels, including total and free testosterone, DHEAS, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone, are routinely measured to identify the hormonal etiology.

Question 7

What is the Risk of Clitoromegaly?

Accepted Answer

While clitoromegaly is a symptom, its underlying causes carry inherent risks if left unaddressed. Untreated hyperandrogenism can lead to progressive virilization, including hirsutism, acne, and voice deepening, along with potential metabolic complications such as insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. Psychosocial distress related to body image can also be significant. Mismanagement without proper medical supervision may exacerbate these physiological and psychological challenges.

Clitoromegaly

Meaning

Context

Significance

Mechanism

Application

Metric

Risk

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