Hirsutism is characterized by a male pattern of excess terminal hair in women. It is usually associated with hyperandrogenemia; however, women with normal androgen levels may also show mild symptoms of hirsutism. It is caused due to: Polycystic ovary syndrome Adrenal hyperplasia Thyroid dysfunction Cushing syndrome Androgen-secreting tumors Androgen therapy involving testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Hair follicle oversensitivity to androgens High levels of insulin can activate the insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-1) receptors and increase androgen production.
A differential diagnosis of hirsutism from hypertrichosis must be considered in suspected patients as hypertrichosis may be congenital or caused by any underlying metabolic disorders . With elevated androgen levels, signs of virilization (deepening voice, balding, acne, breast atrophy, increased muscle mass, and…
