Hirsutism in Women: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
August 2019
in “
PubMed
”
hirsutism polycystic ovary syndrome idiopathic hyperandrogenism nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia androgen-secreting tumors hyperprolactinemia thyroid disorders Cushing syndrome androgen levels combined oral contraceptives finasteride spironolactone topical eflornithine shaving waxing plucking photoepilation electrolysis PCOS oral contraceptives Propecia Vaniqa
TLDR Hirsutism in women is mostly caused by polycystic ovary syndrome and idiopathic hyperandrogenism.
Hirsutism in women is characterized by excessive growth of terminal hair in a male pattern, often due to high androgen levels. Polycystic ovary syndrome and idiopathic hyperandrogenism account for over 85% of cases, with other causes including nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen-secreting tumors, and certain medications. Diagnosis involves evaluating androgen levels, especially in women with rapid onset or virilization signs. Treatment options include pharmacologic agents like combined oral contraceptives, finasteride, spironolactone, and topical eflornithine, which should be tried for at least 6 months. Hair removal methods such as shaving, waxing, and plucking are temporary, while photoepilation and electrolysis offer more permanent solutions but are costly.
