Background
What do we already know about this topic?
- Hirsutism is growth of excessive terminal hair in androgen-dependent sites.1
- This can be hormonal, idiopathic, or drug-induced – but in 75% of cases, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the cause.2
How was this study conducted?
- 150 patients with PCOS were recruited from clinics in Egypt and randomized into three groups for this 6-month trial.
- All three groups received 6 laser sessions with a diode laser, 810 nm; Group 2 also received metformin, and Group 3 a combined oral contraceptive containing cyproterone and ethinyl estradiol.
- Patient quality of life was measured (Dermatological Life Quality Index and health-related quality of life), and physician assessment of hirsutism performed using a 5-point visual analogue scale.