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

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.