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Anti-androgens in gynaecological practice
Bailliere'S Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|September 1, 1988
Summary
Hirsutism and acne in women are often caused by androgen effects on the skin. Cyproterone acetate (CPA) effectively blocks androgen receptors and, with ethinylestradiol, reduces androgen production for treatment and contraception.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Hirsutism and acne in women stem from androgenic effects on skin.
- These effects are influenced by androgen production and bioavailability, including plasma transport and peripheral metabolism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanism of action of anti-androgens in treating skin conditions like hirsutism and acne.
- To highlight cyproterone acetate (CPA) as a primary treatment option.
Main Methods:
- Review of the physiological mechanisms underlying androgen action on skin.
- Discussion of the pharmacological properties of cyproterone acetate (CPA).
Main Results:
- Androgens, particularly testosterone and DHT, mediate unwanted hair growth, acne, and seborrhoea.
- Cyproterone acetate (CPA) is a potent androgen receptor antagonist with progestogenic activity.
- Combination therapy with ethinylestradiol suppresses ovarian androgen production and offers contraception.
Conclusions:
- Effective anti-androgens block androgen receptor-mediated actions on the skin.
- CPA, especially when combined with ethinylestradiol, provides a comprehensive treatment for androgen-related skin conditions in women.