Exploration of hirsutism: elements for a strategy

50 women complaining of hirsutism were investigated in order to establish an optimal strategy for hirsutism exploration. Basal hormonal evaluations were of great value, especially serum testosterone and, to a lesser degree, DHA-S and LH. LH response to LHRH stimulation appeared of little diagnostic value. ACTH stimulation tests may be useful in detecting enzyme deficiencies in patients with normal basal values. The origin of hyperandrogenism can hardly be detected by the inhibition tests. However, these tests allow to determine whether the androgen secretion is still under ACTH and/or LH control.