Excessive amount of hair on face and body is known as:

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2020

Explanation

Hirsutism is the medical term for the excessive growth of coarse, pigmented (terminal) hair in women.
This hair growth occurs in an androgen-dependent or 'male-pattern' distribution, affecting areas like the face, chest, and back.
The condition is a clinical sign of hyperandrogenism (excess male hormones).
It is distinct from hypertrichosis, which is generalized excessive hair growth not confined to androgen-sensitive areas.

Option B: Alopecia refers to hair loss or baldness, which is the direct opposite of the excessive hair growth described in the question.
Option C: Angulation is a term used in anatomy and geometry to describe a bend or the formation of an angle. It has no relevance to dermatology or hair growth.
Option D: Beau's lines are transverse grooves or depressions that appear on fingernails or toenails, not related to hair.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Terminology of Hair Growth Disorders as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Hirsutism is a key clinical sign that should prompt a nurse to consider an underlying endocrine disorder, most commonly Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
Nurses should be sensitive to the significant psychological distress, anxiety, and body image issues that hirsutism can cause in patients.
Patient education is crucial, covering potential causes, the importance of diagnostic workup, and available treatment options, which range from cosmetic removal to hormonal therapy.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of medical terminology.
First, identify the key concept in the question stem: 'Excessive amount of hair on face and body'.
Scan the options to see which term relates to hair conditions.
Eliminate options that are clearly unrelated. 'Angulation' (a bend/angle) and 'Beau's line' (a nail condition) are not related to hair growth.
Differentiate between the remaining relevant options. 'Alopecia' means hair loss, which is the opposite of the condition described.
Conclude that 'Hirsutism' is the correct term that specifically describes excessive male-pattern hair growth in women.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 2 p. 1042-1044

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