It is a group of symptoms caused by the overproduction of male hormones in the ovaries, leading to the appearance of cysts.
It usually develops from puberty into adulthood.
The cause is unknown, but there is a hereditary component.
It is characterised by irregular menstrual cycles (less frequent with excessive bleeding), acne, baldness, facial and chest hair and obesity. It is a common cause of infertility in women who do not ovulate and is associated with diabetes, high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol.
The diagnosis is made on the basis of clinical history and is confirmed by blood hormone analysis and ultrasound to confirm the presence of cysts.
As there is no definitive cure, treatment is symptomatic and involves the administration of female hormones (contraceptive pills). It is very important to lose weight to prevent high blood pressure and diabetes.
A gynaecologist should be consulted to assess, monitor and treat the condition. If you have heavy menstrual bleeding or high blood sugar, you should go to the emergency room.
- Robert L Rosenfield, MD. Diagnostic evaluation of polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescents. UpToDate. Oct 14, 2016.
- Robert L Rosenfield, MD. Definition, clinical features and differential diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescents. Jul20, 2016.
- Azziz R, Woods KS, Reyna R, et al. The prevalence and features of the polycystic ovary syndrome in an unselected population. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2004; 89:2745.
- Rosenfield RL. Clinical review: Identifying children at risk for polycystic ovary syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2007; 92:787.
- Rotterdam ESHRE/ASRM-Sponsored PCOS Consensus Workshop Group. Revised 2003 consensus on diagnostic criteria and long-term health risks related to polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertil Steril 2004; 81:19.
- Hall JE. Trastornos premenstruales y dolor pélvico. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 1. 19º Edición: 337
