Clinical Features of Hirsutism
The most common cause is probably related to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). This is characterized by:
- Infertility
- Menstrual abnormalities or amenorrhea
- Obesity
- Polycystic ovaries
It is thought that the fundamental problem may be an increase in resistance to insulin which in turn derives the ovaries to produce testosterone. This in turn will have secondary effects on hair growth. It will also be associated with an increase in acne. Hirsutism usually is present on the sides of the breasts, the sides of the face and neck as well as on the abdomen. About half the individuals affected by this will be obese and have some brown discolouration called acanthosis nigricans on the sides of the neck and in the arm pits.
Hirsutism:
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