Clinical Significance of Testosterone and Dihydrotestosterone Metabolism in Women

The document discussed the clinical significance of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) metabolism in women, particularly in the context of hyperandrogenism, which involves excess androgen production and its clinical manifestations. It highlighted the complexity of evaluating hyperandrogenism due to the varying roles of adrenal and ovarian sources of androgens. The study noted that increased enzyme 5 alpha-reductase activity in the skin could lead to increased androgen sensitivity, converting testosterone to DHT, a localized phenomenon without a generalized increase in enzyme activity. DHT is rapidly metabolized into other steroid metabolites. Antiandrogens were identified as effective treatments for cutaneous hyperandrogenism, and clinical trials were underway to assess the efficacy of finasteride, a 5 alpha-reductase inhibitor, for treating hirsutism and androgenetic alopecia.