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; Androblastoma

Symptoms

The Sertoli cells are normally located in the male reproductive glands (the testes). They feed sperm cells. The Leydig cells, also located in the testes, release a male sex hormone called testosterone.

In men, some cancers of the testes can start in the Sertoli and Leydig cells. These are considered types of testicular cancer.

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