Hirsutism and virilization. A systematic approach to benign and potentially serious causes.
A woman with excessive body hair may visit a physician with concerns about fertility and general health as well as appearance. Fortunately, the cause is usually benign, most often polycystic ovarian syndrome. However, life-threatening causes must be quickly ruled out. Hirsutism secondary to endocrinopathies and tumors can typically be recognized by the rapid progression of hair growth; patients should be referred for prompt evaluation and treatment. Benign causes can usually be treated effectively with medical and mechanical methods.
Marshburn
P B
PB
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC 28232-2861.
Carr
B R
BR
D005260:Female; D006628:Hirsutism / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D014770:Virilism / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy