what is androgen excess? | fast facts | glossary of terms | faq
Androgen Excess and PCOS Society
For patients
Androgen excess disorders are hormonal imbalances in women due to the excess production or effect of male hormones (i.e. androgens ). The most common androgen disorder is the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome although other disorders, like non-classic adrenal hyperplasia , are also relatively common. Common signs and symptoms of androgen excess include irregular menstruation, infertility, and excess hair growth on the face or body (called hirsutism), acne and loss of scalp hair (called alopecia) (see ‘ Signs and Symptoms of Androgen Excess ’).
One of the principal aims of the Society is to educate and provide patients affected by androgen excess, and the clinicians caring for them, with the most up to date information regarding these disorders, thereby improving the diagnosis and care of women affected with these common and important disorders . Interested patients are encouraged to become a member of the Society in the Associate category (see ‘ Becoming a Member ’).
The Society sponsors the presentation of cutting edge science at its annual and international meetings (see ‘ Upcoming Meetings ’). These meetings also serve as an important source of information on new developments and clinical recommendations for patients and those individuals caring for these women.
The following links may provide useful information for patients possibly suffering from androgen excess.