In women, the presence of terminal hair on the face alone suggests what condition?

The presence of terminal hair on the face in women typically indicates a condition characterized by excess androgen production. Androgens are male hormones that exist in both men and women, and when females experience an increase in androgens, it can lead to hirsutism, which is the growth of coarse, dark hair in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the face.

Excess androgens can result from various conditions, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or adrenal gland disorders. Hirsutism is recognized as a common symptom of these conditions, thus confirming that terminal hair growth on the face points towards an excess of androgen rather than deficiencies or hormonal changes unrelated to androgens.

This understanding is key in diagnosing potential underlying issues and discussing treatment options.