Which skin condition is characterized by male-pattern hair growth in females?

Which skin condition is characterized by male-pattern hair growth in females?

• A. Alopecia
• B. Hirsutism
• C. Hypertrichosis
• D. Dermatofibroma

Answer: (B)

Hirsutism is the correct term for the skin condition characterized by male-pattern hair growth in females. It refers to excessive hair growth in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the face, chest, and back, due to an increased level of androgens or an increased sensitivity to these hormones. Hirsutism can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and certain medications. Understanding this condition is important as it not only affects physical appearance but may also indicate underlying hormonal issues that might require medical attention. Alopecia refers to hair loss and is not associated with excessive hair growth. Hypertrichosis is a condition that involves excessive hair growth, but it does not exhibit a specific pattern like hirsutism does. Dermatofibroma, on the other hand, is a benign skin tumor, usually appearing on the legs, and is unrelated to hair growth patterns. This delineation helps to clarify why hirsutism is the most appropriate answer in this context.

Hirsutism is the correct term for the skin condition characterized by male-pattern hair growth in females. It refers to excessive hair growth in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the face, chest, and back, due to an increased level of androgens or an increased sensitivity to these hormones. Hirsutism can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and certain medications.

Understanding this condition is important as it not only affects physical appearance but may also indicate underlying hormonal issues that might require medical attention.

Alopecia refers to hair loss and is not associated with excessive hair growth. Hypertrichosis is a condition that involves excessive hair growth, but it does not exhibit a specific pattern like hirsutism does. Dermatofibroma, on the other hand, is a benign skin tumor, usually appearing on the legs, and is unrelated to hair growth patterns. This delineation helps to clarify why hirsutism is the most appropriate answer in this context.