RESUMO
This study aimed to obtain an assessment of hirsutism regarding the frequency of its various causes, distribution, pattern, severity and some hormone assay findings. The study was conducted on 25 female patients complaining of hirsutism. The total score of hirsutism was calculated. Abdominal and pelvic examination both clinically and by ultrasonography revealed polycystic ovaries in five patients. Serum testosterone and prolactin were elevated in over than 50%, while serum FSH and LH and cortisol were normal in all patients. Hormonal profile for patients with polycystic ovary syndrome revealed that serum testosterone was raised in 60% of cases and serum prolactin in 80%. Sex hormone binding globulin was also measured, diminished in all patients with hirsutism. LH and FSH were normal in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome [PCOS] but the mean LH levels were significantly higher in these patients than in those without PCOS. The PCOS comprised 20% of cases of hirsutism in the present study. The other cases would be either idiopathic or related to suprarenal hyperactivity [80%]. Although there was no clinical evidence of suprarenal dysfunction in the present series, yet precise assessment of suprarenal function is needed