A female showing severe hirsutism should be tested for which hormones?

In the case of a female presenting with severe hirsutism, it is essential to evaluate the levels of testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S). Hirsutism, which is the excess growth of coarse hair in areas where men typically grow hair, can often be traced back to hormonal imbalances, particularly androgens.

Testosterone is a major androgen produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands, and elevated levels can lead to the development of male-pattern hair growth. DHEA-S, another androgen, is primarily produced by the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor to testosterone. Therefore, measuring the levels of both testosterone and DHEA-S helps to determine if there is an excess of androgens contributing to the hirsutism.

The other hormones listed are less relevant in the context of diagnosing hirsutism. Estrogen and progesterone are more involved in menstrual cycle regulation and reproductive functions, while chorionic gonadotropin is associated with pregnancy. Growth hormone does not play a direct role in the regulation of hair growth or hirsutism. Thus, testing for testosterone and DHEA-S is the most appropriate approach for diagnosing the underlying hormonal causes of hirsutism