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Hirsutism Updated 3/2011

Laura L. Novak, MD
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BASICS

  • Description
  • Epidemiology
  • Risk Factors
  • General Prevention
  • Etiology
  • Associated Conditions

DIAGNOSIS

  • Signs and Symptoms
  • Tests
  • Differential Diagnosis

TREATMENT

  • Medication (Drugs)
  • Additional Treatment
  • Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Ongoing Care

  • Follow-Up Recommendations
  • Diet
  • Patient Education
  • Prognosis
  • Complications
The following is an excerpt....
BASICS
Description
  • Presence of excessive body and facial hair, in a male pattern, in women
  • May be present in normal adults as an ethnic characteristic, or may develop as a result of androgen excess
  • Often seen in association with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). May be accompanied by menstrual irregularities, insulin resistance, obesity, or acne.
  • System(s) affected: Dermatologic; Endocrine/Metabolic; Reproductive
  • Synonym(s): Excessive hair
ALERT: Pregnancy Considerations
  • May have related infertility. Offer intervention if desired.
  • As hormone balance improves, fertility may increase; provide contraception as needed.
  • Several medications used for treatment are contraindicated in pregnancy.
Epidemiology
Prevalence

8% of adult women

Risk Factors
  • Family history
  • Anovulation
Genetics

Multifactorial

General Prevention
  • If there is associated insulin resistance or polycystic ovarian ...

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See Also
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Hirsutism: female, chinCredit: Image provided by Stedman's.
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