RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Diagnostic approach to androgen disorders in women: acne, hirsutism, and alopecia
JF Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine
JO Cleve Clin J Med
FD Cleveland Clinic
SP 423
OP 427
VO 57
IS 5
A1 Redmond, Geoffrey P.
A1 Bergfeld, Wilma F.
YR 1990
UL http://www.ccjm.org/content/57/5/423.abstract
AB The most common signs of androgen excess in women are acne, alopecia, and hirsutism. Less common manifestations include android obesity, virilization, and acanthosis nigricans. These changes appear to be the result of excessive androgen production or increased target organ sensitivity. To evaluate excessive androgen production, an androgen screening protocol is recommended that includes measurement of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, testosterone, androstenedione, prolactin, follicular stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone. When androgen excess is confirmed, dexamethasone suppression is recommended to determine the source of the androgen(s). Once excessive androgen production is confirmed, more specific therapies can be administered.