Polycystic ovary syndrome and acne

Skin Therapy Lett. 2010 Nov-Dec;15(10):1-4.

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in reproductive aged women. It is typically characterized by hyperandrogenism, chronic anovulation, and polycystic ovaries. Women with PCOS often experience dermatologic manifestations of hyperandrogenism, including hirsutism, acne vulgaris, and androgenic alopecia. This article will review the treatments for acne due to androgen excess in PCOS women.

MeSH terms

  • Acne Vulgaris / etiology
  • Acne Vulgaris / therapy*
  • Alopecia / etiology
  • Alopecia / therapy
  • Female
  • Hirsutism / etiology
  • Hirsutism / therapy
  • Humans
  • Hyperandrogenism / etiology
  • Hyperandrogenism / therapy*
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / complications*
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / therapy
  • Prevalence