Ovarian cause of hirsutism:
**Core Concept**
Hirsutism is a condition characterized by excessive growth of body hair, particularly in women, due to **androgen** excess. The **ovarian** causes of hirsutism are primarily related to **polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)** and other disorders that lead to increased production of **androgens** by the ovaries.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the **ovarian** production of **androgens**, which can be elevated in conditions such as **PCOS**. In **PCOS**, the ovaries produce excessive amounts of **androgens**, leading to symptoms such as hirsutism, acne, and male pattern baldness. This is often due to **insulin resistance** and **hyperinsulinemia**, which stimulate **androgen** production by the ovarian **stroma**.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect because it is not specified, but typically, other options like **Cushing's syndrome** or **congenital adrenal hyperplasia** are adrenal causes, not ovarian.
**Option B:** Incorrect as it is not provided, but usually, **adrenal** disorders or **tumors** would be considered.
**Option D:** Incorrect because it is unspecified, but often, **idiopathic** or **familial** causes are considered after ruling out ovarian and adrenal causes.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that **PCOS** is the most common **ovarian** cause of hirsutism, and **insulin-sensitizing** agents can be an effective treatment for managing symptoms.
**Correct Answer:** D. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)