Polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age. PCOS manifests itself with an array of clinical features and symptoms, the three most common being the disorders  of ovulation, excessive production of androgens, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. PCOS is often associated with  obesity and insulin resistance. For a number of years, PCOS has been associated with skin and reproductive manifestations. Women with PCOS have a higher risk of obesity, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome. Before Rotterdam consensus, no universally accepted diagnostic  criteria had existed. In the lack of clear aetiology and underlying pathogenetic mechanism the patients are treated according  to their symptoms, risks and desire for the pregnancy.  

Key words:
hyperandrogenism; insulin resistance; polycystic ovary syndrome