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Hirsutism--a low dose spironolactone therapy
Acta Universitatis Palackianae Olomucensis Facultatis Medicae
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Low-dose spironolactone effectively treats hirsutism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or idiopathic hirsutism. Treatment significantly reduced testosterone levels and showed a high clinical response rate with minimal side effects.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gynecology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Hirsutism is a common condition in women, often associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or Idiopathic Hirsutism (IH).
- Elevated androgen levels, particularly testosterone, are frequently implicated in the pathogenesis of hirsutism.
- Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment remain crucial for managing this condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of low-dose spironolactone in treating hirsutism in women.
- To assess the impact of spironolactone on serum testosterone levels.
- To compare hormonal profiles between women with PCOS and IH.
Main Methods:
- Assay of total testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, prolactin, and estradiol in 78 women (17 IH, 61 PCOS).
- Clinical assessment of hirsutism and menstrual regularity.
- Treatment of 12 hirsute women with 75 mg daily spironolactone for six months.
Main Results:
- Serum testosterone levels were not consistently sensitive in detecting abnormalities.
- Spironolactone treatment resulted in an excellent clinical response in 58% of women with hirsutism.
- A statistically significant reduction in testosterone values was observed after six months of spironolactone therapy.
Conclusions:
- Low-dose spironolactone is an effective treatment for hirsutism in women with PCOS and IH.
- Spironolactone therapy leads to significant reductions in testosterone levels.
- The treatment demonstrates a favorable safety profile with minimal side effects.