Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Endocrinology and metabolism
The many faces of polycystic ovary syndrome
Recent articles on:
Endocrine diseases
Endocrine diseases
Abstract
This opinion piece describes the diagnosis and management of polycystic ovary syndrome, a common, heterogeneous disorder that can have wide-ranging effects on a woman’s appearance, fertility and cardiometabolic risk. Clinicians should treat the patient’s immediate concern as well as addressing the longer-term implications of the diagnosis.
Key Points
- Women with polycystic ovary syndrome present with various issues, including menstrual cycle irregularity, symptoms of androgen excess, reduced fertility or metabolic problems such as obesity or glucose intolerance.
- A careful menstrual history and clinical examination are the most important components of assessment and diagnosis.
- Phenotype subclassification and a focus on the patient’s primary concerns will help clinicians direct appropriate management.
Picture credit: © Kevin Somerville.
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