The investigation and management of hirsutism.
Excess male-pattern body hair in women is a very common and psychologically damaging condition. Although its cause is usually a chronic and benign disorder (most commonly polycystic ovary syndrome) it may rarely be an indication of a more serious endocrine disease such as Cushing syndrome or an androgen-secreting tumour. Investigations do not usually need to be extensive, but effective management is important, irrespective of cause, for what can be a debilitating symptom. Specific treatment of any underlying disease is important but in most cases treatment is empirical; it may simply involve physical hair removal, ideally by electrolysis or laser treatment. However, endocrine therapy to suppress androgen production and/or action is desirable in many, if not most, cases.
Institute of Reproductive & Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK. s.franks@imperial.ac.uk
Stephen
S
Franks
D000311:Adrenal Glands / Q000378:metabolism; D000726:Androgen Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000728:Androgens / Q000097:blood / Q000378:metabolism*; D003278:Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000518:Eflornithine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004700:Endocrine System Diseases / Q000150:complications; D005260:Female; D006628:Hirsutism / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D010053:Ovary / Q000378:metabolism; D011085:Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy; D013739:Testosterone / Q000378:metabolism
D000726:Androgen Antagonists; D000728:Androgens; D003278:Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal; D013739:Testosterone; D000518:Eflornithine