Everything about Hirsutism totally explained
Hirsutism (from Latin
hirsutus = shaggy, hairy) is defined as excessive and increased
hair growth in women in locations where the occurrence of
terminal hair normally is minimal or absent. It refers to a male pattern of body hair (
androgenic hair) and it's therefore primarily of
cosmetic and
psychological concern. Hirsutism is a
symptom rather than a
disease and may be a sign of a more serious medical indication, especially if it develops well after
puberty.
Causes
The cause of hirsutism can be either an increased level of
androgens (male
hormones) or an oversensitivity of
hair follicles to androgens. Male hormones such as
testosterone stimulate hair growth, increase size and intensify the growth and pigmentation of hair. Other symptoms associated with a high level of male hormones include
acne and deepening of the voice and increased muscle mass.
Growing evidence implicates high circulating levels of insulin in women to the development of hirsutism. This theory is consistent with the observation that obese (and thus presumably insulin resistant hyperinsulinemic) women are at high risk of becoming hirsute. Further, treatments that lower insulin levels will lead to a reduction in hirsutism.
It is speculated that insulin, at high enough concentration, stimulates the ovarian theca cells to produce androgens. There may also be an effect of high levels of insulin to activate the insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-1) receptor in those same cells. Again, the result is increased androgen production.
The following may be some of the conditions that may increase a woman's normally low level of male hormones:
Appearance and evaluation
Hirsutism only affects women, since the rising of androgens causes a male pattern of body hair, particularly in locations where women normally don't develop terminal hair within their
puberty (
chest,
abdomen, back and
face). The medical term for excessive hair growth that affect both men and women is
hypertrichosis.
One method of evaluating hirsutism is the
Ferriman-Gallwey score which gives a score based on the amount and location of hair growth on a woman.
Treatment
Many women with unwanted hair seek methods of
hair removal to control the appearance of hirsutism. But the actual causes should be evaluated by physicians, who can conduct blood tests, pinpoint the specific origin of the abnormal hair growth, and advise on the best course of treatment.
Further Information
Get more info on 'Hirsutism'.
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