TLDR Diagnosing PCOS in teenagers is hard because its symptoms often look like normal puberty, and there's a need for better diagnosis methods and agreement on criteria.
The document reviewed 73 studies on the diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in adolescents, highlighting the diagnostic challenges due to the overlap of PCOS symptoms with normal puberty signs. It discussed the use of different diagnostic criteria, such as those from the NIH, Rotterdam, and AES, and the difficulties in assessing hyperandrogenism, menstrual irregularity, and polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) in adolescents. The review pointed out that while hirsutism is a useful marker, biochemical hyperandrogenism might be more reliable, and that menstrual irregularity persisting two years post-menarche could indicate PCOS. It also noted the limitations of transabdominal ultrasound in evaluating PCOM in virginal adolescents and the potential of anti-Müllerian hormone as a surrogate marker. The document reported a high prevalence of obesity in adolescents with PCOS and the association with metabolic abnormalities, suggesting lifestyle changes and weight loss as primary treatments, with metformin and oral contraceptives as secondary options. The review concluded with a call for consensus on diagnostic criteria and further research due to the risks of premature diagnosis and the need for reliable diagnostic methods.
52 citations,
June 2013 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” The research found that anovulatory young women have higher androgen and hormone levels than those who ovulate, suggesting immature hormonal regulation rather than a specific condition.
1514 citations,
December 2011 in “Fertility and sterility” Experts agree that PCOS affects women's health in complex ways, but more research is needed to understand and treat it effectively.
26 citations,
November 2011 in “Arquivos Brasileiros De Endocrinologia E Metabologia” Diagnosing PCOS in teenagers should focus on signs of excess male hormones and not rely solely on ovarian ultrasound or irregular periods, and should be reassessed in adulthood.
212 citations,
May 2010 in “American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology” Diagnosing PCOS in teenagers is challenging and should use strict criteria to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary worry.
288 citations,
June 2009 in “Human reproduction update” The modified Ferriman-Gallwey method is a useful tool for diagnosing hirsutism.
26 citations,
April 2007 in “Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition” A teenage girl with high androgen levels and PCOS developed a rare liver tumor, suggesting a possible link between high androgens and the tumor's growth.
166 citations,
March 2007 in “Hypertension” High androgen levels in young women with PCOS are linked to higher blood pressure.
50 citations,
February 2007 in “Clinical obstetrics and gynecology” Early detection and treatment of PCOS in teenagers is important to manage symptoms and prevent severe issues.
1744 citations,
August 2006 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Polycystic Ovary Syndrome should be seen mainly as a condition of excess male hormones, with a focus on this in its definition.
January 2022 in “International Research Journal of Ayurveda & Yoga” Ayurveda treats PCOS by balancing body elements and using lifestyle changes and herbs.
Women with acne may have a higher chance of having PCOS, which can lead to other health problems.
5 citations,
June 1998 in “PubMed” Excessive androgen in women can cause acne, hair growth, baldness, and PCOS, often treatable with medication.
