Non-Polycystic Ovary Syndrome–Related Endocrine Disorders Associated with Hirsutism

May 2011 in “ European Journal of Clinical Investigation ”

Kürşad Ünlühizarcı, Gregory Kaltsas, Fahrettin Keleştimur

hirsutism nonclassical adrenal hyperplasia idiopathic hirsutism HAIR-AN syndrome androgens hyperandrogenism antiandrogens oral contraceptives gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonists insulin sensitizers finasteride spironolactone teratogenic Propecia

From the encyclopedia

Finasteride →

Frontline, gold standard treatment for combatting androgenic alopecia

Spironolactone →

powerful topical and oral anti-androgen used mostly by women

Studysummary This review discusses the various causes of hirsutism other than PCOS, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing potentially life-threatening conditions like androgen-secreting tumors from more benign causes; it reports no new clinical findings. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

The document reviews the causes and treatments of hirsutism not related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), emphasizing that while PCOS is the most common cause, other conditions like nonclassical adrenal hyperplasia, idiopathic hirsutism, HAIR-AN syndrome, and various endocrine disorders can also lead to hirsutism. It discusses the role of androgens in hair growth, the importance of diagnosing and treating underlying conditions, and the potential cardiovascular risks associated with hyperandrogenism. Treatments include pharmacological options such as antiandrogens, oral contraceptives, gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonists, insulin sensitizers, and cosmetic measures. The document notes that low-dose finasteride is as effective as high-dose therapy for hirsutism, and spironolactone can be combined with finasteride for improved outcomes. It also mentions the importance of using effective contraception with finasteride due to its teratogenic potential. The document stresses the need for individualized treatment plans and the importance of recognizing hirsutism as a sign of potentially serious conditions. It does not provide specific numbers of study participants, so the strength of the evidence cannot be assessed.

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Research cited in this study

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