Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Question 1

Define PCOS.

Answer 1

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) includes symptoms of hyper-androgenism, irregular or absent periods, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. PCOS is a spectrum; some patients can exhibit symptoms of PCOS.

Question 2

Explain the aetiology/risk factors of PCOS.

Answer 2

Family history of PCOS
Premature adrenarche
Low birth weight
Fetal androgen exposure
Obesity
Environmental endocrine disruptors

Question 3

Summarise the epidemiology of PCOS.

Answer 3

PCOS affects 6% to 8% of women of reproductive age in the US (using the 1990 National Institutes of Health criteria); symptoms generally start at the time of puberty.

Question 4

Recognise the presenting symptoms of PCOS. Recognise the signs of PCOS on physical examination.

Answer 4

Acne
Overweight or obesity
Hypertension
Scalp hair loss
Oily skin or excessive sweating
Acanthosis nigricans

Question 5

Identify appropriate investigations for PCOS and interpret the results.

Answer 5

USS Ovaries
Serum androgens
Serum testosterone and DHEAS
Serum prolactin
Serum TSH