Simplify Your Approach to the Diagnosis and Treatment of PCOS

December 2022 in “ OBG Management ”

Robert L. Barbieri

hyperandrogenism oligo-ovulation hirsutism acne female androgenetic alopecia infertility estrogen-progestin contraceptive spironolactone metformin female pattern hair loss birth control pills

TLDR The conclusion is to diagnose PCOS with just hyperandrogenism and irregular periods, and treat with lifestyle changes and basic medications.

The document suggests simplifying the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by focusing on two core criteria: hyperandrogenism and oligo-ovulation. PCOS is a common problem affecting 6% to 10% of women of reproductive age, often presenting with symptoms such as hirsutism, acne, female androgenetic alopecia, infrequent menstrual bleeding, infertility, overweight, or obesity. The document criticizes the Rotterdam approach to diagnosing PCOS, which includes ultrasound imaging, due to its complexity, cost, and potential for misdiagnosis. Instead, it recommends returning to the 1990 National Institutes of Health (NIH) criteria, which bases the diagnosis on history and physical examination. The document also suggests simplifying the treatment of PCOS by counseling about lifestyle changes and prescribing an estrogen-progestin contraceptive, with spironolactone and/or metformin.

View this study on cdn.mdedge.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Similar Research

6 / 1000+ results

research Evidence-Based Approach to Cutaneous Hyperandrogenism in Women

42 citations, July 2015 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

The conclusion is that oral contraceptives and antiandrogens can treat hirsutism and acne in women with cutaneous hyperandrogenism, but more research is needed for effective treatments, especially for hair loss.

research Managing the PCOS-Related Symptoms of Hirsutism, Acne, and Hair Loss

1 citations, August 2013 in “Springer eBooks”

Birth control pills and anti-androgen medications help manage hair growth, acne, and hair loss in women with PCOS.

research Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review for Dermatologists

30 citations, October 2014 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

A team approach is crucial for managing PCOS, with dermatologists playing a key role.

research Diagnosis, Management, and Associated Comorbidities of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Narrative Review

April 2024 in “Curēus”

Early detection and comprehensive treatment of PCOS are crucial due to its long-term health impacts and associated risks.

research The SAHA Syndrome: Overview and Classification

70 citations, January 2000 in “Hormone Research in Paediatrics”

SAHA syndrome is a condition in women involving skin and hair issues, often related to hormonal imbalances, and is treated based on the underlying cause.

research Idiopathic Hirsutism: Androgen Role and Treatment Options

47 citations, August 2000 in “Endocrine Reviews”

The document concludes that more research is needed to understand excessive hair growth in women with normal hormone levels and regular ovulation.

Simplify Your Approach to the Diagnosis and Treatment of PCOS

Related Community Posts Join

community Proposed new pathogenesis model for androgenetic alopecia (AGA)

community Dutasteride SAVES your hair follicles: MAJOR BS on people who say it destroyed their hair permanently.

community DHT levels after 4 weeks of Fina and 8 weeks of Fina + 4 weeks of Duta

community Spironolactine Update: 2 months (34, Female)

community Quit vaping/smoking = 80% less loss

community I came across this 98 year old man and couldn’t help but notice the amazing hair this guy has. His hairline is better than mine and I’m 80 years younger.