Androgen insensitivity syndrome
Overview
What is androgen insensitivity syndrome?
Androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) is a genetic disorder that affects sexual development before birth and during puberty. Individuals with AIS have one X and one Y chromosome making them genetically male, but they usually self-identify as female and have external female genitals. These individuals also do not grow facial hair or have other external male features during puberty. Individuals with AIS also experience infertility problems.
Androgen insensitivity syndrome occurs because the cells that make up the bodies of people affected with this disorder are unable to respond to hormones that are crucial in the development of male characteristics. These hormones are called androgens. Typically, a male body would be sensitive to these androgens, however in the case of AIS, the body is not sensitive to these hormones and cannot respond as a typical male would. The main androgen is testosterone. There are three main types of this syndrome: complete, partial, and mild. Each of these types has different signs and symptoms.
More Overview Content
Are there other names for androgen insensitivity syndrome?
What is the usual abbreviation for androgen insensitivity syndrome?
How common is androgen insensitivity syndrome?
Are there other names for androgen insensitivity syndrome?
Another name for androgen insensitivity syndrome is 'testicular feminization' or 'androgen resistance syndrome'; however, these names are outdated and not commonly used.
AIS is not only used as an acronym for androgen insensitivity syndrome. Always check that the material you are reading is in reference to androgen insensitivity syndrome.
References
What is the usual abbreviation for androgen insensitivity syndrome?
The usual abbreviation for Androgen insensitivity syndrome is AIS. AIS is not only used as an acronym for androgen insensitivity syndrome. Always check that the material you are reading is in reference to androgen insensitivity syndrome.
References
How common is androgen insensitivity syndrome?
Androgen insensitivity syndrome occurs in approximately 1 in 50,000 to 1 in 20,000 individuals.
