What describes the presence of excessive body and facial hair in women?

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The term that describes the presence of excessive body and facial hair in women is hirsutism. This condition is characterized by hair growth in areas where men typically grow hair, such as on the face, chest, and back, which is a result of excessive levels of androgens (male hormones) or an increased sensitivity of hair follicles to these hormones.

Hirsutism is often a symptom of an underlying endocrine issue, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and it can significantly affect a woman's appearance and self-esteem. Treatment for hirsutism may involve hormonal therapies, hair removal techniques, or lifestyle changes, depending on the underlying cause.

The other terms provided refer to different conditions. Male pattern baldness describes hair loss in men and is unrelated to excessive hair growth. Hypertrichosis refers to excessive hair growth in any area of the body, but it is not limited to facial and body hair in women specifically. Acne vulgaris, on the other hand, is a skin condition related to clogged hair follicles and sebum production, not hair growth. Therefore, hirsutism is the most accurate descriptor for excessive hair growth in women.

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