Book Review
December 2001
in “
Fertility and Sterility
”
TLDR The book provides a clear overview of PCOD and is recommended for medical trainees and clinicians, but may lack depth for advanced researchers.
The document is a book review of "Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome" edited by G. T. Kovacs, which provides a contemporary overview of polycystic ovary disease (PCOD), a complex and multifaceted condition. The reviewer acknowledges the difficulty in understanding PCOD, even with extensive training and clinical experience, and appreciates the book's timing as it coincides with new insights into the disease from ultrasound, molecular biology, and the study of insulin resistance. The book is praised for its clear and succinct presentation, international perspective, and for addressing PCOD as a multisystem condition. It covers the history, genetics, extra reproductive manifestations, lifestyle modifications, fertility enhancement, and pregnancy related to PCOD. The reviewer found value in the discussions on androgenic alopecia, genetics, and lifestyle modifications, but was disappointed by the brief treatment of insulin-sensitizing agents and acanthosis nigricans. The book is recommended for residents, fellows, or clinicians seeking an understanding of PCOD, but may not be sufficiently in-depth for deep researchers. The reviewer, Peter R. Casson, M.D., intends to keep the book as a valued resource.