Simultaneous Estimation of Four Plasma Androgens Before and After Dynamic Tests in Women with Hirsutism: Correlation with Long-Term Therapy

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Abstract
Concentrations of testosterone, △4-androstenedione, dihydrotestosterone and Δ5-androstenediol were measured in 12 patients affected by hirsutism associated with menstrual disorders. Testosterone was elevated in 9 cases, in whom high levels of Δ4-androstenedione and dihydrotestosterone were found, and normal in 3 cases, 2 of which presented high values of dihydrotestosterone and one high levels of Δ5-androstenediol. In some hirsute females therefore, other androgens, such as dihydrotestosterone and Δ5-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.