Iatrogenic hirsutism refers to hair growth caused by?

Iatrogenic hirsutism specifically pertains to excessive hair growth that occurs as a direct result of medical interventions, most commonly attributed to the use of certain medications or drugs. For instance, anabolic steroids, some hormonal therapies, and certain medications used for conditions like epilepsy or depression can lead to this condition by altering the hormone levels in the body or by other mechanisms that promote hair growth.

This term combines "iatrogenic," meaning caused by medical treatment or diagnosis, with "hirsutism," which refers to the presence of excessive body hair in women in areas where men typically grow hair. Understanding that iatrogenic hirsutism is drug-induced highlights the connection between pharmacological treatments and unintended side effects, which is a crucial aspect of patient care.

The other options reflect different causes of hair growth or patterns but do not encapsulate the specific nature of iatrogenic hirsutism as having a direct relationship with drug treatments. Genetic factors, hormonal changes, and dietary deficiencies may contribute to hirsutism but are not classified under the iatrogenic category.