Production of secondary male sex characteristics (e.g., deeper voice, increased facial and body hair, greater muscle bulk) in a female, usually the result of adrenal malfunction or the intake of certain drags, especially hormones.
The development of masculine characteristics in a woman caused by overproduction of the male sex hormones (androgens) by the ovaries or by the adrenal glands. In postmenopausal women, the condition may result from ovarian cancer. Virilization can cause excessive body hair growth, deepening of the voice, increased muscle mass, and acne. In premenopausal women, menstrual periods may stop. Synthetic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRH) may be administered to treat some forms of virilization caused by an ovarian tumor.
The induction in a female of increased body hair, muscle bulk, and deepening of the voice as a result of hormone imbalance or hormone therapy.
The production of masculine secondary sex characteristics in a woman. These include deepening of the voice, development of male-type baldness, clitoral enlargement, and increased growth of facial and body hair. Virilization may be caused by one of several endocrine diseases that lead to excess production of testosterone, or by the woman’s taking anabolic steroids, e.g., to attempt to enhance muscular development.
The emergence of masculine traits in a woman due to excessive production of androgen hormones from either the adrenal glands or ovaries. This phenomenon can stem from various conditions like specific adrenal tumors, polycystic ovary syndrome, certain ovarian cysts, or even congenital adrenal hyperplasia (a rare genetic disorder).