What term describes abnormal hair growth that follows a male pattern?

The term that describes abnormal hair growth following a male pattern is hirsutism. This condition typically manifests in women who develop coarse, dark hair in areas where men usually grow hair, such as the face, chest, and back. Hirsutism is often associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly involving androgens, and may be linked to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or adrenal gland disorders.

In contrast, hypertrichosis refers to excessive hair growth in areas that are normally hairy, but it is not limited to a male pattern; it can affect any part of the body. Alopecia denotes hair loss rather than abnormal hair growth, while vellosity describes soft, fine hair (vellus hair), which is not associated with abnormal growth patterns. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the features and implications of hirsutism specifically.