The investigation and management of the hirsute woman
Abstract: Female hirsutism is a distressing and embarrassing problem although there is rarely a sinister underlying pathology. It is characterised by excessive coarse terminal hairs in a male-like pattern and is due to increased androgen production or increased sensitivity of androgen receptors. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is by far the commonest cause of hirsutism. A systematic evaluation of the patient will readily identify any serious underlying cause. Therapeutic options often include a combination of medical treatments targeting different sites of action, apart from mechanical ablation, cosmetic measures, or use of a new topical treatment to reduce the rate of hair growth. The combined oral contraceptive pill (OCP) is the most commonly used treatment and can supplement other medi...

What is the evidence of benefit of Vaniqa (eflornithine) cream for facial hirsutism? Are there any guidelines for prescribing on NHS?
The UK Medicines Information published a review in November 2005 [1]. nbsp; The full-text is available via the URL in the reference section. (Source: NLH Question Answering Service)