Diagnosis and management of patients with hyperandrogenism in early reproductive age
Authors:   Academician V.I.Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Khashchenko E.P. , .Lisitsyna O.I. ,   Academician V.I.Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Uvarova E.V. ,   Academician V.I.Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: December 2021

Hyperandrogenism is characterized by the presence of clinical symptoms and / or biochemical parameters of high androgen levels. Dermopathy and particularly acne and hirsutism are regarded as the main clinical markers of hyperandrogenism. Cosmetic problems associated with hyperandrogenism are often the reason for young woman to seek medical attention. Body hair growth in atypical areas, acne and trophic skin changes have a significant effect on the emotional state, provoke a sense of imperfection and loss of attractiveness, and reduce the quality of life. Concomitant menstrual disorders (up to 50–75%) complicate the patient’s state and determine an increased risk of gynecological disorders in the future. The causes of hyperandrogenism in early reproductive age can be varied: from more common physiological hyperandrogenism in adolescence, idiopathic hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and the atypical form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia to less common hyperthecosis, acromegaly, hyperprolactinemia, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, and androgen-secreting tumors. The diagnostic search should begin with assessing complaints and clinical symptoms, and a complete physical examination. To confirm biochemical hyperandrogenism, total and free testosterone, and free androgen index are evaluated. Additional methods of examination are used to clarify the diagnosis. Treatment is prescribed in accordance with the established diagnosis. Androgen-secreting tumors require surgical intervention. Other causes of hyperandrogenism are usually treated with medication. According to current recommendations, combined oral contraceptives are the first-line therapy for the most common conditions accompanied by hyperandrogenism (hirsutism, acne vulgaris, PCOS) in early reproductive age. A clinical solution may be a combined administration of microdoses of ethinylestradiol (20 μg) and drospirenone (3 mg), progestagen with antiandrogenic property in the mode 24 + 4 (for instance: Dimia). This article presents clinical cases of diagnosis and management tactics for patients of early reproductive age with hyperandrogenism. Conclusion. The differential diagnosis of physiological and pathological conditions accompanied by hyperandrogenism is one of the current challenges for obstetrician-gynecologist. A properly developed algorithm of examination, interpretation of its results, therapy and prevention of complications are of great importance. Key words: acne, alopecia acreata, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hyperandrogenism, hirsutism, girls, drospirenone, combined oral contraceptives, contraception, adolescents, early reproductive age, polycystic ovary syndrome, ethinylestradiol