The Ferriman-Gallwey score is a method of evaluating and quantifying hirsutism in women, a condition where there is too much body hair.

Hair growth is rated from 0 (no growth of terminal hair) to 4 (complete and heavy cover), in nine locations, giving a maximum score of 36. In Caucasian women, a score of 8 or higher is regarded as indicative of androgen excess. With other ethnic groups, the amount of hair expected for that race should be considered.

The nine locations measured are the upper lip, chin, chest, upper back, lower back, upper abdomen, lower abdomen, the upper arms and the thighs. ^[1]

This rating scale has since been modified by some to include a total of 19 locations, with the 10 extra locations being: sideburns, neck, buttocks, inguinal area, perianal area, forearm, leg, foot, toes and fingers. Each area has its own specified definition of the 4 point scale. ^[2]

[edit] References

1. ^ Ferriman D, Gallwey JD: Clinical assessment of body hair growth in women. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology 1961; 21:1440-1447.
2. ^ Goodman N, Bledsoe M, Cobin R, Futterweit W, Goldzieher J, Petak S, Smith K, Steinberger E: "American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists Hyperandrogenism Guidelines". Endocrine Practice 2001; 7(2):120-134