Final answer:
Hypertrichosis and hirsutism are conditions of excessive hair growth, with hirsutism associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and an overproduction of male hormones such as androgens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Both hypertrichosis and hirsutism refer to conditions of excessive hair growth. Hypertrichosis is characterized by hair growth that is extensive and not limited to any particular zone of the body, potentially due to a variety of causes, including genetic mutations or side effects of drugs. Hirsutism, on the other hand, describes excessive hair growth in women that follows a male pattern distribution, such as the face, chest, and back. This condition is often linked to an overproduction of androgens, or male hormones, and is frequently associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Symptoms include irregular menstrual periods, weight gain, acne, and the excessive facial hair associated with hirsutism. The presence of high levels of androgens, such as testosterone produced by the ovaries and DHEA produced by the adrenal glands, can cause these symptoms, along with complications like infertility.
Increased androgen levels in women lead to characteristics that are typically considered masculine, such as increased muscular development and growth of facial, axillary, and pubic hair. High blood glucose levels can also indicate the presence of PCOS, as well as the worrisome effects it may have on a woman's overall health. The figure of a Polycystic Ovary indicates the presence of multiple small cysts in the ovary, a hallmark of PCOS.