Hirsutism and virilization. A systematic approach to benign and potentially serious causes.

A woman with excessive body hair may visit a physician with concerns about fertility and general health as well as appearance. Fortunately, the cause is usually benign, most often polycystic ovarian syndrome. However, life-threatening causes must be quickly ruled out. Hirsutism secondary to endocrinopathies and tumors can typically be recognized by the rapid progression of hair growth; patients should be referred for prompt evaluation and treatment. Benign causes can usually be treated effectively with medical and mechanical methods.