[Non-tumor-related hirsutism in the adult woman: ovarian dystrophy or disorders of adrenal gland hormonogenesis?].

As Yen admits, polycystic ovarian disease (POD) probably has several causes, one of which involves an adrenal origin. In 20 out of a group of 45 hirsute women, the authors detected a biologic pattern suggesting ovarian dystrophy. Kinetic investigation of the adrenal function in these subjects during a synacthen retard test detected abnormal adrenal hormone production due to partial enzymatic block: in 3 cases of 21-hydroxylase, in 1 case of 11-hydroxylase and in 3 cases of 3 beta-hydroxydehydrogenase. The existence of the first two types of blockade is well established, but that of the third type remains subject to doubt. Systematic screening for disorders of this type during ovarian dystrophy would appear to be of clinical interest. The frequently empirical prescription of dexamethasone in dysovulation in POD cases may find its justification in this phenomenon; the same is also true for the use of bromocriptine in 3 beta-hydroxydehydrogenase.