Definition: Hirsutism is excessive male-pattern hair growth in women. The hair growth associated with hirsutism is stiff and pigmented. Male-pattern hair growth can appear:
- on the face, chin, upper lip, and sideburns,
- on the area between the breasts and around the nipples,
- on the back,
- up from the pubic hairline towards the navel,
- and on the inner thighs.
Women who experience hirsutism usually produce excessive androgens. In most cases, hirsutism is caused by a hormone or endocrine disorder such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Rarely, hirsutism may indicate a more serious condition such as a tumor.
Common Misspellings: hersutism, hersuitism
Examples: Hirsutism commonly occurs in women with PCOS.
