Current Concepts of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
June 1997
in “
Baillière's clinical obstetrics and gynaecology
”
polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS hyperandrogenism functional ovarian hyperandrogenism FOH functional adrenal hyperandrogenism FAH insulin resistance hyperinsulinemia androgen secretion anovulation Stein-Leventhal syndrome beta-cell secretory dysfunction non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus NIDDM PCOS FOH FAH NIDDM
Studysummary This article reviews the potential mechanisms underlying polycystic ovary syndrome, emphasizing insulin resistance and hormone dysregulation, and reports no new research findings.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by unexplained hyperandrogenism, with symptoms including skin issues, lack of ovulation, and obesity. The document from 1997 describes that most cases of PCOS with the full Stein-Leventhal syndrome are due to functional ovarian hyperandrogenism (FOH), which is often associated with abnormal regulation of ovarian androgen secretion, typically due to a failure in the mechanisms that prevent excessive estrogen production. Functional adrenal hyperandrogenism (FAH) is also common in PCOS but less associated with anovulatory symptoms. Insulin resistance is frequently observed in PCOS, with resulting hyperinsulinemia potentially causing dysregulation of androgen secretion, either due to genetic predispositions or obesity. The document suggests that PCOS may be an early indicator of a condition that could lead to cardiovascular and metabolic issues later in life, and that some PCOS patients may also have beta-cell secretory dysfunction, linking the disorder to non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). The underlying genetic causes of PCOS were not yet understood at the time of the document.
