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Hirsutism

By , About.com Guide

Updated October 12, 2009

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Definition:

Hirsutism refers to abnormal hair growth, or the appearance of hair in places it does not normally grow. In women, hirsutism may include hair growth on the upper lip, chin, breasts, or abdomen. Hirsutism may also refer to male pattern balding in women.

Hirsutism is a sign of hyperandrogenism, or the presence of abnormally high levels of the androgen hormones. It may be a symptom of PCOS, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), or androgen-secreting tumors, all of which may cause infertility in women.

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