Answer 2 PCOS. PCOS is the most common cause of hirsutism. An increased LH/FSH ratio of > 2.5 to 1 is the classic pattern associated with PCOS. Manifestations of PCOS include hirsutism, obesity, acanthosis nigricans, and menstrual irregularities. Cushing’s syndrome may mimic PCOS, but other findings such as hypertension and violaceous abdominal striae would likely be present. Laboratory assessment is critical. Elevated 17-hydroxyprogesterone is seen in CAH as a result of 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Turner’s syndrome would manifest with primary amenorrhea. In patients with Turner’s syndrome, female sexual characteristics are present but are generally underdeveloped due to a chromosomal abnormality (45,X). In patients with Turner’s syndrome, only one X chromosome is present and fully functional. Click here to return to the questions
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