Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in the Context of Pituitary Adenomas: Prevalence, Pathophysiology and Clinical Management

December 2024 in “ Clinical Endocrinology ”

E.M. Cela, Dario De Alcubierre, Emilia Sbardella

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome PCOS pituitary adenomas acromegaly Cushing's syndrome growth hormone cortisol prolactin insulin resistance androgen excess dopamine agonists prolactinomas

Studysummary This study suggests that persistent symptoms in patients with controlled functioning adenomas may indicate a coexisting PCOS diagnosis, highlighting the need for precise differentiation and timely management of these conditions. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

This review examines the intersection of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and pituitary adenomas (PAs), highlighting the challenges in diagnosis and management due to overlapping features. The prevalence of PCOS varies with different PAs, such as 13% in acromegaly and 46% in Cushing's syndrome. Excess hormones like growth hormone, cortisol, and prolactin contribute to PCOS pathogenesis through insulin resistance and androgen excess. Accurate diagnosis is crucial to distinguish these conditions from other disorders. Treatments like dopamine agonists for prolactinomas and surgical or medical interventions for acromegaly and Cushing's syndrome can improve PCOS symptoms. The review emphasizes the need for further research to understand the pathophysiological links and optimize management strategies for patients with co-occurring PCOS and PAs.

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Research cited in this study

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