Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review
July 2009
in “
Journal Of Endocrinology, Metabolism And Diabetes Of South Africa
”
TLDR The document concludes that managing PCOS involves treating symptoms and reducing long-term metabolic risks, with lifestyle changes being important.
The 2009 document provides a detailed review of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrinopathy affecting 5-10% of women of reproductive age, characterized by hyperandrogenism, anovulation, and polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM). It discusses the evolution of diagnostic criteria, the heterogeneity of the condition, and the associated risks of metabolic syndrome and infertility. The review also covers clinical and biochemical assessment of hyperandrogenism, the use of trans-vaginal ultrasound for PCOM, and the differentiation of PCOS from other conditions. It highlights that 50% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance (IR), and there is a 7-fold increased risk of type 2 diabetes, as well as increased cardiovascular risks and obstetric complications. Treatment focuses on symptom management and improving long-term outcomes, with lifestyle modification as a key strategy. For hirsutism, spironolactone and topical eflornithine are recommended as first-line treatments, while metformin is recognized for preventing diabetes but not as effective for weight loss or menstrual regularity. The document emphasizes that management should address both symptoms and metabolic consequences.