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Hirsutism — DRCOG MCQ

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HardGynaecologyHirsutismDRCOG

A 28-year-old has new rapidly progressive facial hirsutism, deepening voice and irregular periods over 4 months. What is the most appropriate initial investigation?

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Correct answer: A — Measure serum androgens and arrange urgent endocrine assessment

The best answer is “Measure serum androgens and arrange urgent endocrine assessment”. Rapid progression of virilisation features is not assumed to be routine PCOS. It needs prompt androgen assessment and evaluation for an ovarian or adrenal androgen-secreting cause. PCOS remains a common cause of slower-onset hyperandrogenism, but the tempo and virilisation signs in this presentation require a more urgent diagnostic pathway than symptomatic treatment alone.

Reference: NICE CKS: Polycystic ovary syndrome: https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome/