Hirsutism in a gynaecological context.
Investigation of patients presenting with hirsutism to a gynaecological endocrine clinic revealed a high incidence of anovulation, obesity and elevated androgen levels. The underlying abnormality was polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in the majority of patients. Low levels of sex hormone binding globulin were common; these increased with oestrogen treatment. Treatment with a combined oral contraceptive pill and low dose spironolactone was often effective in reducing symptoms.
Gynaecologic Endocrine Clinic, Royal Women's Hospital, Carlton.
K M
KM
McKenna
R J
RJ
Pepperell
J
J
Evans
D000328:Adult; D000858:Anovulation / Q000150:complications; D003278:Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D012739:Gonadal Steroid Hormones / Q000097:blood*; D006628:Hirsutism / Q000097:blood* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000097:blood; D009765:Obesity / Q000150:complications; D011085:Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / Q000150:complications; D012738:Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin / Q000378:metabolism*; D013148:Spironolactone / Q000627:therapeutic use
D003278:Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal; D012739:Gonadal Steroid Hormones; D012738:Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin; D013148:Spironolactone; D006854:Hydrocortisone