The nurse is providing care to a newborn female who is born with ambiguous genitalia. The follow-up investigation discovers adrenogenital syndrome (also called congenital adrenal hyperplasia [CAH]). The parents question why the baby's genitalia looks more male than female. Which response by the nurse is accurate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ambiguous genitalia in females with CAH is due to increased androgens, such as testosterone, which are produced because of a deficiency of cortisol. The excess androgens can cause masculinization of the female external genitalia. Option A is incorrect because the term "hermaphrodite" is outdated and considered offensive. Option C is incorrect because excessive cortisol would not cause enlargement of the female tissue, and it would not create a male appearance. Option D is incorrect because CAH is not a genetic disorder caused by a single sex chromosome abnormality.

The Nurse Is Providing Care to a Newborn Female Who