Acne and hyperandrogenism

Abstract

Elevated serum androgen levels have been reported in patients with acne resistant to conventional dermatologic therapy. This study was designed to investigate the relationship between serum androgen levels and the presence of acne in an unselected population of women seen consecutively by a dermatologist for various dermatologic complaints. Elevated serum testosterone levels were associated with acne regardless of whether this was the presenting complaint or an incidental finding. Women with both acne and hirsutism had higher serum testosterone levels than those with acne alone. Higher incidence of irregular menstrual cycles was noted in women complaining of acne. Normal serum testosterone levels were found only in those patients with regular menstrual cycles and the absence of acne or hirsutism. In conclusion, this study suggests that elevated serum testosterone levels are related to the presence of acne. Attention is called to the possibility that acne may be a clinical manifestation of a disorder with systemic and reproductive consequences.