Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Question 1

PCOS is the most common cause of

Answer 1

oligomenorrhea in the United States, with a

dramatically high incidence that is rising!

Question 2

diagnose criteria PCOS:

Answer 2

1. • Clinical hirsutism and/or high testosterone/DHEA
2. • Irregular menstruation
3. • 10 cysts on pelvic sonogram with enlarged ovary (> 10 cm)

Only 2 of the above. If first two, US not needed

Question 3

LH/FSH ratio

Answer 3

not part of the diagnostic criteria

The LH/FSH alterations occur afterward.

Question 4

why is PCOS a “prediabetic” state

Answer 4

some of the same mechanisms that cause insulin resistance also interfere with
aromatization of testosterone to estrogen, leading to higher androgen levels in these patients.

Question 5

why Irregular menstruation is a problem

Answer 5

woman’s uterine lining must be shed regularly-
otherwise, there may be conversion to uterine
hyperplasia (premalignant).

Question 6

PCOS tx

Answer 6

Oral contraceptives containing progesterone.
lifestyle management.
metformin

Question 7

PCOS tx last resource

Answer 7

Spironolactone