Hirsutism: Clinical, Biological, and Etiological Aspects (Regarding 20 Cases)
September 2013
in “
Annales d Endocrinologie
”
TLDR Hirsutism often links to polycystic ovary syndrome and high testosterone, needing thorough investigation.
This study aimed to determine the clinical, biological, and etiological aspects of hirsutism through a retrospective analysis of 20 patients from January 2009 to March 2013. The average age of the patients was 27 years, with hirsutism appearing during puberty in 26% and post-puberty in 73%. The condition was mild in 50% and moderate in 50% of cases, with 33% experiencing menstrual cycle disorders. Hyperandrogenism was present in 45% of patients, and 20% showed signs of hypercorticism. Obesity was noted in 45% of cases, with 25% being overweight. Other associated conditions included hypertension (30%), diabetes (15%), glucose intolerance (10%), hyperinsulinism (10%), and dyslipidemia (20%). Elevated testosterone levels were found in 75% of cases. The etiologies included polycystic ovary syndrome (45%), idiopathic causes (25%), enzymatic block (15%), medication-related (10%), and adrenal tumors (5%). The study highlighted the importance of a thorough etiological investigation and recommended measuring total testosterone as a first step.