TLDR The conclusion is that young women with excessive hair growth should be quickly tested for hormonal issues and treated to improve their social well-being.
The document emphasizes the importance of promptly evaluating adolescent females who report excessive hair growth, focusing on ruling out androgen-secreting tumors and treatable adrenal conditions. A basic evaluation should include tests for total serum testosterone, DHEA-S, and prolactin levels. The decision for additional testing should be based on whether it would significantly change the treatment approach. Management strategies involve addressing any identifiable sources of androgens, correcting hormonal imbalances, and providing cosmetic treatments like electrolysis for existing hair. Effective treatment is crucial for the social well-being of young women experiencing this condition.
5 citations
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July 2009 in “Experimental and Clinical Endocrinology & Diabetes” The study investigated androgen receptor (AR) levels in 34 female patients with androgen-dependent dermatoses, including acne, hirsutism, and androgenetic alopecia. Biopsies were taken on day 21 of the menstrual cycle, and AR levels were assessed in both cytosol and nuclear fractions. The results showed that 76% of cases were positive for AR, with 86% of androgenetic alopecia, 80% of acne, and 60% of hirsutism patients showing positive results. While cytosol AR levels did not differ significantly among the conditions, nuclear AR levels were highest in hirsutism, followed by androgenetic alopecia and acne. The study concluded that nuclear AR assays provide a more comprehensive understanding of local hormone action compared to cytosol AR assays alone.
66 citations
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October 1987 in “The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism/Journal of clinical endocrinology & metabolism” Measuring androstanediol glucuronide in blood is useful for assessing and tracking treatment in women with excessive hair growth.
75 citations
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May 1986 in “Clinics in endocrinology and metabolism” Male hormones are important for hair and oil gland development and can cause conditions like excessive hair growth and acne.
288 citations
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June 2009 in “Human reproduction update” The modified Ferriman-Gallwey method is a useful tool for diagnosing hirsutism.
