Hirsutism in the United Arab Emirates: a hospital study

In a study conducted in the United Arab Emirates involving 102 women with hirsutism, 91% were diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), including 26 women who had regular menstrual periods. Transabdominal ultrasonography was the most effective diagnostic tool. Luteinising hormone hyperresponsiveness to gonadotropin-releasing hormone was found in only 7 out of 50 patients tested. Additionally, late onset congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency was identified in 2 cases. The study suggested that the term 'idiopathic or racial' hirsutism should only be used when no diagnosable underlying disorder is found after thorough evaluation.