Evidence-Based Approach to Cutaneous Hyperandrogenism in Women

    Timothy H. Schmidt, Kanade Shinkai
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    Studysummary This review discusses diagnostic and treatment considerations for women with cutaneous hyperandrogenism, noting therapeutic options are more effective for hirsutism and acne than for androgenetic alopecia, but reports no new clinical results. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
    The document from 2015 reviews the diagnosis and treatment of cutaneous hyperandrogenism (CHA) in women, which encompasses conditions such as hirsutism, acne, and androgenetic alopecia (AGA). It highlights that CHA can be indicative of systemic disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and that many women with CHA have normal serum androgen levels, suggesting the involvement of local factors at the pilosebaceous unit. The modified Ferriman-Gallwey score is used to assess hirsutism, while the Ludwig or Olsen scales are used for alopecia. The review suggests that oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), with or without antiandrogens, are effective for hirsutism and acne, but options for AGA are limited. Minoxidil is mentioned as a treatment for AGA with a small effect size. The document calls for more research on CHA mechanisms and treatment efficacy and stresses the importance of a thorough history and skin examination in guiding diagnosis and treatment, which may include COCs and antiandrogens even in the absence of elevated androgen levels. The document does not specify the number of people in any referenced study.
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