Hirsutism: Diagnosis and Management
April 2010
in “
Gender Medicine
”
hirsutism idiopathic hirsutism functional ovarian hyperandrogenism congenital adrenal hyperplasia Cushing's syndrome serum testosterone DHEAS oral contraceptives antiandrogens insulin-sensitizing agents topical treatments physical hair removal saw palmetto birth control pills antiandrogen medications insulin-sensitizers topical creams hair removal methods
TLDR The conclusion is that hirsutism should be diagnosed and treated because it affects quality of life and may signal other health problems.
The document reviewed the condition of hirsutism, which is excessive hair growth in women, and its impact on quality of life. It discussed the various potential causes, including idiopathic hirsutism, functional ovarian hyperandrogenism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and Cushing's syndrome. The document noted that idiopathic hirsutism accounts for about half of mild cases. Diagnostic approaches include history taking, physical examination, and laboratory tests for serum testosterone and DHEAS levels. Treatment options range from oral contraceptives and antiandrogens to insulin-sensitizing agents, topical treatments, and physical hair removal methods. The document also mentioned the lack of evidence for complementary and alternative medicine treatments like saw palmetto. The importance of diagnosing hirsutism was emphasized due to its psychological effects and as an indicator of possible underlying health issues.
