dermatologic disorders
Hirsutism and Hypertrichosis
Introduction
Hirsutismis the excessive growth of thick or dark hair in women in locations that are more typical of male hair growth patterns (eg, mustache, beard, central chest, shoulders, lower abdomen, back, inner thigh). The amount of hair growth that is considered excessive may differ depending on ethnic background and cultural interpretation. Hypertrichosisis a separate condition. It is simply an increase in the amount of hair growth anywhere on the body. Hypertrichosis may be generalized or localized. Men vary significantly in amount of body hair, some being quite hairy, but rarely present for medical evaluation. 