Definition Criteria and Diagnostic Assessments for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
February 2013
Studysummary This review discusses polycystic ovary syndrome, highlighting its associations with hyperandrogenism, chronic anovulation, polycystic ovaries, and increased risks of infertility and metabolic disorders, and reports no new clinical results. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
The 2013 document outlines the diagnostic criteria and assessments for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), affecting 4-12% of women of reproductive age. It discusses the evolution of PCOS diagnostic criteria, including the NIH, Rotterdam, and AE-PCOS Society definitions, and the importance of evaluating hyperandrogenemia and hyperandrogenism through measurements of testosterone and other androgens. Clinical signs like hirsutism, acne, and androgenic alopecia are considered, along with ovulatory and menstrual dysfunction, polycystic ovaries, and metabolic disorders such as impaired glucose tolerance and Type 2 diabetes. The document also addresses the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes in PCOS women (7.5%), the presence of insulin resistance in 50-70% of these women, and the criteria for metabolic syndrome. It notes the increased cardiovascular risk in PCOS women and lists disorders to be excluded in the diagnosis. Diagnostic methods for assessing insulin resistance are also included. The document emphasizes the need for accurate diagnosis and management of PCOS to address associated risks.
