PCOS Flashcards
What are the main criteria for PCOS?
Two of three.
- Anovulation
- Hyperandrogenism
- Polycystic ovaries
How common is PCOS?
6-10% of reproductive-age women
What is PCOS really a problem of?
Androgen excess
What are symptoms of hyperandrogenism? (3)
Hirsutism, acne, male pattern balding
What are symptoms of ovarian dysfunction?
Anovulation, polycystic ovaries
How is hyperandrogegism measured?
Looking at total testosterone and free testosterone
What other hormone is elected in PCOS?
Anti-mullerian hormone
PCOS is linked specifically with this type of fat:
Abdominal adiposity
Describe the patterns of LH/FSH secretion in PCOS.
Persistent rapid frequency GnRH release favors increased LH pulse amplitude and frequency
What results from abnormality of GnRH secretion
Decreased sensitivity to estradiol and progesterone. This prompts increased androgen production from theca cells
What is the pathophysiology of polycystic ovaries?
Increased sensitivity of granulosa cells to FSH– more small pre-antral follicles.
What is effect of PCOS on insulin metabolism? What dermatological sign is associated with PCOS?
PCOS is associated with insulin resistance.
A marker of insulin resistance that appears with PCOS is acanthuses nigricans
Where is mechanism of insulin resistance in PCOS?
Downstream of receptor.
Can women with PCOS become pregnant?
Yes– first use SERM to induce ovulation then FSH as second-line therapy.
What are some significant pregnancy outcomes associated with PCOS? (5)
HTN Pre-eclampsia Gestation DM Pre-term birth Perinatal mortality
