Hyperandrogenism: Acne and Hirsutism

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Abstract

Hyperandrogenism is a common pathology in women, with the main physical manifestations including hirsutism and acne. Etiologies include polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), idiopathic hirsutism, classical and nonclassical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), ovarian and adrenal tumors, Cushing’s disease, and certain medications. The severity of the hirsutism will vary among patients, but treatment should be administered to those who desire it, even if their hirsutism is not severe. Treatment methods include weight reduction, hair removal, oral contraceptive pills, and antiandrogen medications including spironolactone, finasteride, cyproterone acetate, flutamide, and eflornithine. Treatments for acne include topical retinoids, topical antimicrobials (benzoyl peroxide), topical antibiotics (erythromycin, clindamycin, sulfacetamide, dapsone), or oral isotretinoin.

Keywords

Hyperandrogenism Polycystic ovarian syndrome Hirsutism Virilization Acne 
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Copyright information

© Springer International Publishing AG 2017

Authors and Affiliations

  1. 1.Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility/Obstetrics and Gynecology, USUNational Institutes of Health and Walter Reed Natl. Military Medical CenterBethesdaUSA
  2. 2.Oklahoma State University Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyTulsaUSA

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