PCOS Flashcards
What is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age.
The syndrome is named after the characteristic cysts which may form on the ovaries
What are the criteria for PCOS?
Diagnosis is based on two of the following three findings: anovulation, high androgen levels, and ovarian cysts
What are signs and symptoms of PCOS?
Signs and symptoms of PCOS include irregular or no menstrual periods, heavy periods, excess body and facial hair, acne, pelvic pain, difficulty getting pregnant, and patches of thick, darker, velvety skin
What conditions are associated with PCOS?
Type 2 diabetes, obesity, obstructive sleep apnea, heart disease, mood disorders, and endometrial cancer
What does the diagnosis of PCOS increase the risk of?
Endometrial cancer
Type 2 DM
HTN
Depression and axniety
What are risk factors for developing PCOS?
Risk factors include obesity, a lack of physical exercise, and a family history of someone with the condition
What are the differential diagnosis for PCOS?
Other causes of irregular or absent menstruation and hirsutism, such as hypothyroidism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (21-hydroxylase deficiency), Cushing’s syndrome, hyperprolactinemia, androgen secreting neoplasms,
What causes PCOS?
No one cause identified, speculation that there is a strong genetic link and that exposure to higher than typical levels of androgens and the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in utero increases the risk of developing PCOS in later life
How do you assess PCOS?
- HISTORY! –>menstrual pattern, obesity, hirsutism and acne
- Gynecologic ultrasonography, specifically looking for small ovarian follicles
How would you manage PCOS?
Lifestyle: weight loss, healthy lifestyle advice
How would you manage hirsutism and acne in PCOS?
A standard contraceptive pill is frequently effective in reducing hirsutism
Progestogens such as norgestrel and levonorgestrel should be avoided due to their androgenic effects.
