Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Patients with Hair Thinning

May 2020 in “ Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology ”

Sonya Prasad, Brianna De Souza, Lindsay H. Burns, Margaret F. Lippincott, Maryanne M. Senna

female pattern hair loss FPHL Polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS hirsutism acanthosis nigricans alopecia transvaginal ultrasound irregular menses hyperandrogenism hair thinning hair loss

TLDR Women with hair loss should be checked for PCOS, as it's often related and early diagnosis can help with treatment.

The study conducted between January 2017 and June 2019 involved 472 women diagnosed with female pattern hair loss (FPHL), of which 38 (8%) reported a known diagnosis of Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). An additional 15 women (3.2%) were referred to reproductive endocrine (RE) from the hair loss clinic. The study aimed to identify factors leading to a PCOS diagnosis among female patients who presented to a specialty hair loss clinic. The results indicated that females presenting to dermatologists with alopecia should be considered for RE referral. The study confirmed previous reports of hirsutism and acanthosis nigricans being the most reliable clinical markers of PCOS. A detailed menstrual history with subsequent RE referral and work up when indicated, led to a new diagnosis of PCOS in an additional 12 patients (2.5%). The study highlighted the important role of transvaginal ultrasound in diagnosing PCOS, particularly in patients with a history of irregular menses or other clinical signs of hyperandrogenism. Serum hormone values were not required in the patient population to meet PCOS diagnostic criteria. The study concluded that dermatologists treating FPHL patients are uniquely poised to aid in early diagnosis and enable pharmacologic interventions and lifestyle management.

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Research cited in this study

4 / 4 results

research Cutaneous Findings and Systemic Associations in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

53 citations, December 2015 in “JAMA Dermatology”

Women with PCOS often have more body hair, acne, and skin darkening, and these signs are linked to metabolic issues like insulin resistance and high cholesterol.

research Diagnosis and Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline

1265 citations, October 2013 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism”

The guideline suggests using specific criteria to diagnose PCOS, recommends various treatments for its symptoms, and advises screening for related health issues.

research Full Investigation of Patients With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Reveals Significant Differences and Undiagnosed Morbidity

29 citations, November 2011 in “Human Fertility”

Many women with PCOS have undiagnosed health issues and show different symptoms based on the clinic they visit.

research Revised 2003 Consensus on Diagnostic Criteria and Long-Term Health Risks Related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

4809 citations, January 2004 in “Fertility and Sterility”

The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and highlighted increased risks of diabetes and heart disease for those affected.

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