Hirsutism

Abstract

Hirsutism is a distressing and relatively common problem, affecting 5 to 10% of women in the reproductive age group. It is usually a sign of androgen excess, the commonest cause being the polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Diagnosis depends mainly on assessment of the clinical symptoms and laboratory values of various hormones. Antiandrogens combined with various cosmetic therapies form the mainstay of treatment.

Keywords:

• Hirsutism
• polycystic ovarian syndrome
• adrenal
• antiandrogens