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BOOK TITLE: Principles and Practice of Assisted Reproductive Technology
Hirsutism is defined as the presence of terminal coarse hair in a female in the androgen-dependent areas in a male-like pattern. The prevalence of hirsutism is around 5–10%, and many women present in dermatology department for cosmetic reasons. Hirsutism in usually seen in patients with hormonal imbalance although very rarely may be associated with androgen-producing tumors. It is very important to identify the exact cause and offer appropriate treatment accordingly. This chapter covers the normal development and regulation of growth, regulatory factors in hair growth, diagnosis of hirsutism, etiology of hirsutism, investigations and management, and treatment and management. Hirsutism is a result of the interaction between the local androgen concentration, circulating androgen levels, and the sensitivity of the hair follicles to androgens. Treatment of hirsutism depends on various factors like the severity of the condition and the amount of distress it is causing to the patient.