Introduction: Hirsutism is a prevalent condition among women and represents a primary clinical feature of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Areas covered: Our study aims to address the principal challenges associated with this hyperandrogenic manifestation in PCOS women. Our narrative review based on the available indexed literature explored the complexities of establishing mFG cutoff values for various ethnic groups, investigated hirsutism during peri- and postmenopausal stages, and examined the role of oxyandrogens.
Expert opinion: Hirsutism may have a negative impact on the quality of life and on the mental health, being associated with anxiety and depression. Future perspectives for its diagnosis include the use of artificial intelligence and the consideration of the distress caused by excessive hair growth.
Keywords: Hirsutism; PCOS; excessive hair growrh; hyperandrogenism; modified ferriman-gallwey scale.