Simultaneous estimation of four plasma androgens before and after dynamic tests in women with hirsutism: correlation with long-term therapy.

Concentrations of testosterone, delta4-androstenedione, dihydrotestosterone and delta5-androstenediol were measured in 12 patients affected by hirsutism associated with menstrual disorders. Testosterone was elevated in 9 cases, in whom high levels of delta4-androstenedione and dihydrotestosterone was found, and normal in 3 cases, 2 of which presented high values of dihydrotestosterone and one high levels of delta5-androstenediol. In some hirsute females therefore, other androgens, such as dihydrotestosterone and delta5-androstenediol, play a role in the pathogenesis of hirsutism. Dexamethasone and estrogen progestin combinations were administered for dynamic tests, and results in most cases provided useful information in the selection of suitable long-term therapy.