HIRSUTISM
DESCRIPTION |
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Hirsutism is not a disease. The condition usually develops during
puberty and becomes more pronounced as the years go by. However, an
inherited tendency, over-production of male hormones (androgens),
medication, or disease, can cause it to appear at any age.
Women who have hirsutism usually have irregular menstrual cycles.
They sometimes have small breasts and deep voices, and their muscles
and genitals may become larger than women without the condition.
Types of hirsutism
Idiopathic hirsutism is probably hereditary, because there is
usually a family history of the disorder. Women with idiopathic
hirsutism have normal menstrual cycles and no evidence of any of the
conditions associated with secondary hirsutism.
Secondary hirsutism is most often associated with polycystic ovary
syndrome (an inherited hormonal disorder characterized by menstrual
irregularities, biochemical abnormalities, and obesity). This type
of hirsutism may also be caused by:
Malfunctions of the pituitary or adrenal glands
Use of male hormones or minoxidil (Loniten), a drug used to widen
blood vessels
Adrenal or ovarian tumors |
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| HIRSUTISM RELATED ITEMS |
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