Hirsutism is defined as excessive terminal hair growth in distribution typical for postpubertal men. It affects approximately 5-10 % of women and most frequently manifests in puberty. Significant cosmetic stigmatization is the usual complaint that brings patient to the doctor and it is crucial to always rule out any primary underlying disease causing hirsutism - benign or malignant. In this review etiopathogenesis, diagnostic procedures and treatment options are discussed.