Abstract
PPolycystic ovary syndrome is the most common endocrine abnormality that affects reproductive-aged women. Diagnostic criteria of polycystic ovary syndrome have been established by different societies in recent years, and hyperandrogenism remains as one of the main criteria for diagnosis. Cutaneous manifestations of hyperandrogenism include hirsutism, acne and androgenic alopecia and are commonly observed in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. The major determinants of cutaneous manifestations are increased production of androgen and increased tissue availability. Cutaneous manifestations of hyperandrogenism are cosmetic problems, which produce significant emotional distress and psychological morbidity. Treatment includes a combination of combined oral contraceptives, antiandrogens, insulin sensitizers, gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists, topical medications, and cosmetic procedures. The diagnosis, management, and treatment approaches are described in detail in this review.
Highlights
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent endocrinologic disorder among reproductive-aged women
Anti-androgens Anti-androgens are often considered a second-line therapy in hirsutism related with PCOS, especially in the setting of those patients who cannot use combined oral contraceptives or who do not have an adequate response after at least 6 months of treatment [16]
A study that compared the effectiveness of leuprolide and leuprolide plus ethinyl estradiol/ cyproterone acetate containing combined oral contraceptives demonstrated that both treatments were effective in patients with moderate to severe hirsutism [42]
Summary
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent endocrinologic disorder among reproductive-aged women. Anti-androgens Anti-androgens are often considered a second-line therapy in hirsutism related with PCOS, especially in the setting of those patients who cannot use combined oral contraceptives or who do not have an adequate response after at least 6 months of treatment [16]. Spironolactone is synergistic if added to combined oral contraceptives and could provide some additional significant clinical benefit in the treatment of hirsutism in women with PCOS [28, 29].
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