A woman started developing male characteristics. It may be due to

Options

A. Overproduction of adrenal androgens
B. Overproduction of estrogen
C. Damage to mammary estrogen
D. Damage to posterior pituitary.

Answer

To solve the question regarding why a woman started developing male characteristics, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Characteristics**: The question states that a woman is developing male characteristics. Male characteristics typically include traits such as increased body hair (hirsutism), deepening of the voice, and changes in body fat distribution.

2. **Understand Hormonal Influence**: Male characteristics are primarily influenced by androgens, which are male sex hormones. The most well-known androgen is testosterone.

3. **Consider Hormonal Sources**: In females, androgens are produced in smaller amounts by the ovaries and the adrenal glands. The adrenal cortex is responsible for producing adrenal androgens.

4. **Evaluate the Options**:
- **Overproduction of adrenal androgens**: This is a likely cause, as excessive production can lead to the development of male characteristics in females.
- **Overproduction of estrogen**: Estrogen is a female hormone and would not cause male characteristics.
- **Damage to mammary glands**: This is unrelated to the development of male characteristics.
- **Damage to posterior pituitary**: This would not directly affect androgen levels, as androgens are produced in the adrenal cortex.

5. **Conclusion**: The most plausible explanation for the development of male characteristics in a woman is the overproduction of adrenal androgens.

### Final Answer:
The correct answer is **overproduction of adrenal androgens**.

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