Which disorder is caused by excess androgens?

• A. Hypothyroidism
• B. PCOS
• C. Melasma
• D. Alopecia areata

Answer: (B)

When androgens are present in excess, especially in people with ovaries, you see effects like irregular or absent ovulation, increased hair growth in typical male patterns, and acne. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is the condition most clearly tied to higher androgen levels in this context, presenting with hirsutism, acne, irregular menses, and often enlarged ovaries with many small follicles on ultrasound.

Hypothyroidism involves too little thyroid hormone and affects metabolism, energy, and hair quality but isn’t caused by excess androgens. Melasma is a pigmentary condition linked to hormones such as estrogen and sun exposure, not androgen excess. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune patchy hair loss, not driven by androgens.