Hirsutism and Hyperandrogenism

Abstract

Hirsutism is defined as the presence in females of terminal, or dark, coarse hairs that grow in a pattern normally seen in males. The presence of hirsutism is commonly associated with excess androgen production (hyperandrogenism) and warrants further evaluation. In addition to hirsutism, hyperandrogenism may also present clinically as acne, androgenetic alopecia, and menstrual irregularities. Regardless of the severity, hirsutism can be a very disconcerting problem for women and should be addressed with concern and sympathy by clinicians. This review discusses the epidemiology, etiology, physiology, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment of hirsutism.  This review contains 3 figures, 26 tables, and 125 References.  Keywords: Hirsutism, androgen, hyperandrogenism, hair, depilation, epilation, nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia