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08:20
A Hyperandrogenic Mouse Model to Study Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: October 2, 2018
Hirsutism in women.
David Bode1, Dean A Seehusen, Drew Baird
1Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234, USA. dave.bode@us.army.mil
American Family Physician
|February 17, 2012
Summary
Hirsutism, or excess male-pattern hair growth in women, often has normal androgen levels and is frequently caused by polycystic ovary syndrome. Evaluation and treatment depend on symptom severity and potential underlying conditions.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Dermatology
- Gynecology
Background:
- Hirsutism is characterized by excess terminal hair growth in a male pattern in women.
- While often linked to hyperandrogenism, half of women with mild hirsutism present with normal androgen levels.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most frequent cause, accounting for 75% of cases, with medications being another potential cause.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the diagnostic evaluation for hirsutism, differentiating between medication-induced causes and underlying medical conditions.
- To detail the workup for endocrinopathies and neoplasms in non-medication-related hirsutism.
- To summarize current treatment strategies for hirsutism.
Main Methods:
- Evaluation focuses on identifying endocrinopathies (e.g., PCOS, adrenal hyperplasia, thyroid dysfunction, Cushing syndrome) and neoplasms (e.g., androgen-secreting tumors) in non-medication-related cases.
- Diagnostic workup includes hormone level testing (testosterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone), imaging, and stimulation tests based on clinical presentation.
- Treatment strategies encompass hair removal methods and pharmacologic interventions.
Main Results:
- Symptoms like rapid onset, virilization signs, or palpable masses suggest neoplasm, requiring specific investigation.
- For moderate to severe hirsutism, testosterone level assessment is crucial, with levels >200 ng/dL prompting tumor evaluation.
- Empirical treatment is an option for mild cases without concerning findings, while more severe cases require targeted hormonal testing.
Conclusions:
- Hirsutism evaluation requires a systematic approach, considering PCOS, other endocrinopathies, and rare neoplasms.
- Treatment decisions are guided by symptom severity, hormonal status, and patient goals, with oral contraceptives as a common first-line pharmacologic option for those not seeking pregnancy.
- Effective management involves a combination of hair removal techniques and pharmacotherapy, with treatment response monitored over at least six months.
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