Sertoli Leydig Cell Tumor: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Sertoli Leydig Cell Tumor?
A gynecologist often finds the tumor first. Surgery is usually done by a gynecologic oncologist, a surgeon who specializes in cancers of the female organs. A regular doctor can order the first tests and make a referral. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
A Sertoli Leydig cell tumor is a rare growth that starts in the ovary, the organ that holds eggs and makes hormones. It belongs to a group called sex cord stromal tumors, which start in the tissue supporting the egg cells. These tumors often make male hormones. Most are not cancer, but some are, so doctors test every tumor carefully.
Symptoms
Many women first notice changes linked to extra male hormones, including more body or facial hair, acne, a deeper voice, and a change in body shape. Doctors call these changes virilization. A growth on the ovary can also cause pain or fullness in the lower belly. Some tumors bleed or twist the ovary, causing sudden sharp pain.
Causes and who gets it
Doctors do not fully know what causes these tumors; most happen by chance. They are rare and are most often found in young women, usually between the teens and the forties. In some families, they are linked to an inherited condition called DICER1 syndrome.
How doctors diagnose it
A doctor will start with a physical exam. Blood tests can measure hormones, including testosterone. An ultrasound or MRI scan can picture the ovaries. The only way to know for sure is to examine the removed tumor under a microscope.
Treatment
Surgery is the main treatment. In many cases, the surgeon removes only the ovary with the tumor, letting a young woman keep the other ovary and her fertility. If the tumor is cancer or has spread, both ovaries and the uterus may be removed, and chemotherapy may be needed.
When to see a doctor
Anyone with new facial hair growth, a deepening voice, acne that will not go away, or ongoing belly pain should see a doctor. These symptoms have many causes and most will not turn out to be this tumor. Sudden, severe belly pain needs care right away.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and works alongside insurance. Either can order hormone tests and imaging, manage follow-up care, and refer the patient to a gynecologic oncologist when needed.
Common questions
Is a Sertoli Leydig cell tumor always cancer?
No. Most of these tumors are not cancer. Doctors check the tumor under a microscope after removal to learn whether it can spread.
Will my voice go back to normal after treatment?
Some changes, like acne and extra hair, often improve once the tumor is removed. Voice changes may not fully go away. They can become permanent over time.
Can I still have children after treatment?
Many women can, because doctors can often remove only one ovary. If the tumor is cancer and both ovaries are removed, pregnancy would no longer be possible without help from fertility treatments. Talk with your care team before surgery about your plans.
Does this tumor run in families?
Usually not. Most cases happen by chance. A small number are linked to an inherited gene condition called DICER1 syndrome. A doctor may suggest genetic testing if there is a family history.
Sources
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center - Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor
- MedlinePlus - Ovarian Cancer
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
