Overview
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the accumulation of underdeveloped follicles in the ovaries due to anovulation. It is characterized by menstrual abnormalities and clinical or biochemical features of hyperandrogenism.
It results mainly from abnormal steroidogenesis that may be caused by insulin resistance leading to hyperinsulinemia.
There is increased sensitivity to androgens and the majority of women have elevated androgen levels.
Diagnosis is based on 2003 Rotterdam criteria: Two out of three of the following: Oligo-ovulation or anovulation (ovulatory dysfunction), clinical or biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovaries and exclusion of other causes (congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen-secreting tumors, Cushing’s syndrome, thyroid disease, prolactinoma).
Goals of therapy include reducing risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, managing underlying metabolic abnormalities, addressing overweight and obesity, treating hyperandrogenic features, preventing endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma, inducing ovulation in women who wish to become pregnant and providing contraception for those who are not pursuing pregnancy.
For further information regarding the management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, please refer to Disease Algorithm for the Treatment Guideline.
It results mainly from abnormal steroidogenesis that may be caused by insulin resistance leading to hyperinsulinemia.
There is increased sensitivity to androgens and the majority of women have elevated androgen levels.
Diagnosis is based on 2003 Rotterdam criteria: Two out of three of the following: Oligo-ovulation or anovulation (ovulatory dysfunction), clinical or biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovaries and exclusion of other causes (congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen-secreting tumors, Cushing’s syndrome, thyroid disease, prolactinoma).
Goals of therapy include reducing risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, managing underlying metabolic abnormalities, addressing overweight and obesity, treating hyperandrogenic features, preventing endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma, inducing ovulation in women who wish to become pregnant and providing contraception for those who are not pursuing pregnancy.
For further information regarding the management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, please refer to Disease Algorithm for the Treatment Guideline.
