When a client presents with hirsutism but has regular hormone levels, what could be the underlying issue?

When a client presents with hirsutism while their hormone levels are normal, the underlying issue may relate to familial hirsutism and idiopathic hirsutism. Familial hirsutism is typically associated with a genetic predisposition where individuals may have the same condition without having abnormal hormone levels. It often runs in families and reflects natural variation in hair growth patterns.

Idiopathic hirsutism refers to increased hair growth without any identifiable endocrine abnormalities. It implies that while the outward expression of hirsutism is present, it is not due to hormonal excess or dysfunction, which is why hormone levels can remain in the normal range. This condition can also be characterized by sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens, although overall hormone levels may not indicate an issue.

Understanding that both familial and idiopathic hirsutism can occur in individuals with normal hormonal profiles helps guide treatment and management, as these cases may not respond to typical interventions aimed at lowering hormone levels. Instead, focus may be placed on hair removal techniques and potentially addressing any sensitivity concerns.