Hirsutism Flashcards
1
Q
Definition of Hirsutism
A
Excessive hair growth on women in a male pattern (androgenic hair growth). Such as beards, chest, back and abdominal hair.
Primarily a cosmetic and psychological concern. More a sign of a medical condition, rather than a disease in itself.
2
Q
Causes of hirsutism
A
Either du to increase in the level of androgens or an oversensitivity of hair follicles to androgens
3
Q
Conditions which increase the androgen level
A
Endocrine diseases:
- Adrenal causes: Androgen secreting adenoma or adrenocortical cancer. Congenital androgenital syndrome, Cushing’s disease
- Growth hormone excess - acromegaly
- Tumors in ovaries
- Drugs
- idiopathic
