ABSTRACT
Hirsutism is defined as an excessive growth of coarse terminal hairs in women, presenting in characteristic androgen-dependent areas. In contrast, hypertrichosis refers to the growth of any hair (lanugo, vellus, or terminal) that is considered excessive for the age, sex, or ethnicity of an individual on any area of the body (localized or generalized). A maldistribution of hair can be a signal of several medical conditions that, if left unrecognized, could cause significant harm to the patient.1 Both disorders can be cosmetically unappealing. And, in the case of hirsutism, is associated not only with decreased quality of life, but with depression and anxiety.2
