Update on the management of hirsutism

ABSTRACT

Hirsutism is a source of significant anxiety in women. While polycystic ovary syndrome or other endocrine conditions are responsible for excess androgen in many patients, other patients have normal menses and normal androgen levels (“idiopathic” hirsutism). The goal of the evaluation is to rule out any underlying pathology. The goals of therapy are to treat any underlying condition and to remove the excess hair. Current options for hair removal are discussed. Educating patients so they have reasonable treatment expectations is essential, as significant improvement may take weeks or months, and treatment may need to be repeated on an ongoing basis.