PCOS and Terminal Hair Growth Treatment

Oct 18, 2024

Lecture on Terminal Hair Growth and PCOS Treatment

Overview

  • Discussion on terminal hair growth, specifically in unexpected areas.
  • Patient exhibits excess facial hair growth, diagnosed as hirsutism.
  • Issues related to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) discussed.

Terminal Hair Growth

  • Definition: Thick hair growth occurring around the face, underneath, and up the sides.
  • Issue: Excess facial hair difficult to remove by traditional methods such as threading.
  • Emotional Impact: The patient feels embarrassed and uncomfortable having to shave.

Diagnosis: Hirsutism

  • Hirsutism is characterized by excess hair growth in areas typically not expected.
  • Often related to hormonal imbalances.

Patient's Health Background

  • Diagnosed with PCOS at a young age (13-14 years old).
  • PCOS affects ovarian function, leading to hormonal imbalance.
  • Consequences: Increased testosterone levels cause conversion of baby hairs into thicker, male-type hairs.

Misconceptions and Challenges

  • Common misconception: Patient is blamed for hair growth due to weight issues.
  • Difficulty in weight management due to PCOS, despite diet efforts.
  • Important takeaway: The condition is not the patient's fault.

Treatment Plan

  • Hair Removal: Use of effective lasers to remove excess hair (85% reduction expected).
    • Treatment involves 6-7 sessions over 4-6 weeks.
  • Underlying Cause: Need to treat PCOS to prevent further hair growth.
    • Referral to an endocrinologist for hormonal treatment.

Two-Part Treatment Strategy

  1. Laser Hair Removal
    • Treatment performed at a specialized clinic.
    • Process: Selective photothermalysis.
    • Expected duration: Each session lasts about 10 minutes.
  2. Hormonal Treatment
    • Prescribed by Dr. Vanderpump, endocrinologist.
    • Weekly injections and tablets to regulate hormones and reduce testosterone.
    • Aim: Stop new hair growth and potentially restore menstrual cycles.

Patient's Progress

  • Notable reduction in hair thickness and visibility after a few sessions.
  • Emotional impact: Patient feels positive and experiences significant transformation.
  • Expected outcome: Minimal shaving requirements post-treatment.

Conclusion

  • Successful treatment of excess hair growth associated with PCOS.
  • Patient shows significant improvement and optimism.
  • Importance of comprehensive treatment addressing both symptoms and underlying causes.