Comparison of efficacy of diode laser in patients of facial hirsutism with normal dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and dihydrotestosterone versus deranged dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and dihydrotestosterone level-A longitudinal study.

Hirsutism is defined as an excessive terminal hair growth in female over male pattern distribution areas. Traditional methods of hair removal have been replaced by lasers. The aim of the study was to observe the effect of diode laser in hirsutism patient with normal and deranged dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) level. Fifty patients of facial hirsutism with skin type IV and V were enrolled. Eighteen patients with deranged DHEAS and DHT level were allocated in group A whereas 16 patients with normal level were allocated in group B. Three sittings of diode laser was done in all subjects with varying session within a period of 6 months. At first follow-up visit, the percentage of hair reduction was fair in 62.5% of patients in group B and 16.7% of patients in group A, whereas at second follow-up visit, it was good in 56.3% of patients in group B and 11.1% of patients in group A. Increase in vellus hair and reduction in percentage of terminal hair were more significant in group B. Hair free interval and satisfaction level was significantly higher in group B. Diode laser is effective mode of treatment in hirsutism patient irrespective of hormone level. But, the effect is observed to be more efficacious in patients with normal DHEAS and DHT level.