Hyperandrogenism, Adrenal Dysfunction, and Hirsutism

August 2020 in “ Der Hautarzt ”

Evgenia Makrantonaki, Christos C. Zouboulis

hyperandrogenism hyperandrogenemia androgens hirsutism seborrhea acne androgenetic alopecia clitoris hypertrophy polycystic ovary syndrome Cushing disease adrenogenital syndrome virilization androgen-producing tumor antiandrogens cyproterone acetate spironolactone male-pattern hair growth PCOS antiandrogen therapy

From the encyclopedia

Cyproterone →

a synthetic anti-androgen and weak progestogen that inhibits DHT binding to androgen receptor

Spironolactone →

powerful topical and oral anti-androgen used mostly by women

Studysummary This article discusses hyperandrogenism, including its symptoms, causes, and diagnostic approaches, and reports no new clinical results; it emphasizes the role of interdisciplinary care in treatment.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The document discussed conditions of hyperandrogenism and hyperandrogenemia, characterized by excessive androgen levels, leading to symptoms such as hirsutism, seborrhea, acne, and androgenetic alopecia. Hirsutism, or excessive male-pattern hair growth in women, was a key diagnostic criterion. Other symptoms included clitoris hypertrophy, increased muscle mass, irregular menstrual cycles, and metabolic syndrome. Common causes were polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Cushing disease, and late-onset adrenogenital syndrome, with virilization often indicating an androgen-producing tumor. Treatment involved antiandrogens like cyproterone acetate and spironolactone, with a comprehensive clinical evaluation and interdisciplinary approach being crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.

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13 / 13 results

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