Abstract

Hirsutism and acne are commonly encountered conditions and are easy to treat. However, they pose a striking consequence on self-perception. The pathogenesis of hirsutism and acne are extensively studied with one being attributed to insulin resistance. However, these are not well understood. Aim: The present study aimed to establish a relationship between acne vulgaris and hirsutism to insulin resistance and to assess the severity of two conditions with increased insulin resistance. Methods: In included subjects, detailed clinical history was recorded followed by parameters including BMI, weight, and height along with the signs and symptoms of underlying insulin resistance. The severity of hirsutism was assessed using mFG (modified Ferriman Gallwey) score and acne was recorded using GAGS (global acne grading system). The data were analyzed to formulate results. Results: 174 subjects were divided into 3 groups where acne only group with 154 subjects depicted a significant correlation between insulin resistance with recurrence and acne severity with p<0.0001. The hirsutism-only group with 12 subjects showed a strong correlation of HOMA-IR to mFG score and recurrence showing increased hirsutism severity with increased insulin resistance p<0.0001 and recurrence p<0.007. Combined hirsutism and acne group showed a positive correlation between BMI and insulin resistance and not severity. Conclusion: The present study concludes that insulin resistance is a vital contributing factor in the pathogenesis of severe and resistant acne and hirsutism. Insulin resistance can have a significant impact on the psychological state of the affected subjects making it necessary to adopt a different approach for the management of these conditions.

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