The Prevalence of Hirsutism in Girls 14 to 18 Years Old and its Relationship with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Shiraz, Iran

Introduction: Hirsutism is not a hair disorder, androgens stimulated hair growth. The aim of this study was determining the prevalence of hirsutism and the level of androgenic hormones in the blood and its association with polycystic ovary syndrome. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 3200 high school girls age 14 to 18 in Shiraz, Iran during 2009-2010. Modified Freeman-Galway was used to measure hirsutism scores. Transabdominal pelvic ultrasound was performed in patients with hirsutism and other symptoms of hyper androgenic (acne, and alopecia) and androgenic hormones were evaluated. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 11.5, Chi-square and Fisher tests. P value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The prevalence of the severity f hirsutism was estimated in 100 patients (3.2 ). Mean of testosterone levels was higher in hirsutism group, but no significant correlation was seen regarding mean of total testosterone, free testosterone and polycystic ovary syndrome between patients with hirsutism and without hirsutism (p>0.001). But the correlation between menstrual irregularity and hirsutism is statistically significant (p<0.001) Conclusion: Incidenceof hirsutism and levels of androgen hormone has not statistical significant association with polycystic ovary syndrome. Similar researches with larger sample size in women aged 20 to 25 who have normal menstrual cycle is recommended.