The Hyperandrogenism in Female Athletes: When Dermatological Signs Become an Endocrine and Sports Medicine Challenge
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.73.75440Keywords
'Hyperandrogenism', female athletes, Hirsutism, Relative energy deficiency in sportAbstract
Background. Hyperandrogenism in female athletes represents a complex intersection of endocrinology, dermatology, and sports medicine, where visible dermatological markers often signal underlying endocrine dysfunction or exogenous exposure.
Aim. This narrative review analyzes the pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, and clinical management of hyperandrogenism in female athletes, distinguishing between endogenous endocrine disorders, exercise-induced adaptations, and performance-enhancing drug use.
Material and methods. A literature search of PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted to identify recent clinical guidelines, endocrinological studies, and sports medicine literature regarding female hyperandrogenism, dermatological manifestations, and RED-S.
Results. Dermatological signs such as severe acne, hirsutism, and female pattern hair loss serve as critical clinical red flags. Differentiating pathological conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) from Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) and exogenous androgen exposure is essential for accurate diagnosis and regulatory compliance in sports medicine.
Conclusions. Effective management of hyperandrogenism in female athletes requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining dermatological evaluation, rigorous endocrine profiling, and sports medicine oversight to safeguard both athletic health and long-term well-being.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Damian Stencelewski, Jakub Pawlicki, Aleksandra Gorzynska-Schulz, Natalia Gorzynska, Michał Falis, Alicja Nierychlewska, Agata Bronisławska, Robert Bronisławski, Alicja Solecka, Lidia Kiełbratowska
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