Abstract
Hyperandrogenism in women can be caused by various conditions, the most prevalent
of which is polycystic ovary syndrome. Common dermatologic manifestations of hyperandrogenism
include hirsutism, acne, acanthosis nigricans, and androgenic alopecia. Hirsute women
often have increased activity of 5α-reductase, the enzyme that converts the androgen testosterone to its active metabolite,
in hair follicles. Likewise, androgens affect the formation of acne by increasing
sebum production from sebaceous glands in the skin. The diagnosis of polycystic ovary
syndrome includes a complete history, physical examination with emphasis on evidence
of androgen excess, and appropriate laboratory investigation to exclude other causes
of hyperandrogenism. Treatments for the dermatologic conditions of hyperandrogenism
include lifestyle modification, oral contraceptives, antiandrogens, and insulin-sensitizing
medications.
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Article info
Footnotes
☆Supported in part by NIH Grants DA14041-03 (PAE) and K24HD40237 (JEN).
Identification
Copyright
© 2006 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
