Final answer:
The APRN should primarily consider polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as the diagnosis associated with hirsutism, which is characterized by irregular periods, weight gain, and excessive androgens, along with Cushing syndrome due to overlapping symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
A female patient presenting with abnormal hair growth on the face and body and receding hair on the head has been determined to have hirsutism by an APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse). When considering other diagnoses associated with hirsutism, the APRN should primarily consider polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS can be characterized by symptoms such as irregular menstrual periods, weight gain, acne, and excessive production of androgens leading to male-pattern hair characteristics such as hirsutism and male-pattern baldness. Further informative procedures like a pelvic exam, pelvic ultrasound, and blood tests confirming high levels of androgens and glucose can support a PCOS diagnosis.
While conditions like endometriosis and ovarian cancer are serious gynecological concerns, they are generally not directly associated with hirsutism as a symptom. However, Cushing syndrome should also be considered, given that it involves the overproduction of cortisol, which can lead to symptoms including obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, depression, and excessive body hair. Endometriosis would be less likely to cause hirsutism, and ovarian cancer generally has a different set of presenting symptoms.
Based on the provided information and common linkage between PCOS, hirsutism, and the other symptoms described (irregular periods, acne, and weight gain), the APRN's consideration should strongly lean toward a diagnosis of PCOS, with Cushing syndrome as another differential diagnosis worth considering due to its overlapping symptoms such as excessive hairiness.