POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME PROFILE 1

Polysystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common disease affecting 3-8% of women of reproductive age.

The exact cause of PCOS is not clear, and although symptoms are well recognised, there is often no one single symptom, and diagnosis is based primarily on a patient's medical history and the presence of several of the classic signs: irregular or no menstrual pattern, acne, excessively oily skin, infertility, hairiness or occasionally baldness. Many women with PCOS are hypertensive, insulin resistant and overweight or obese and some may have Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Insulin resistance may be at the centre of PCOS. High levels of insulin in the blood stream stimulate the ovaries to increase androgen production.

If PCOS is suspected, investigations are undertaken in the form of ultrasound and clinical pathology. It is the relatively high prevalence of PCOS and its potential for causing other complications that promotes early diagnosis.

Diagnosis can be made after excluding other conditions such as Cushing`s disease (overactive adrenal gland), thyroid problems, congenital adrenal hyperplasia or increased prolactin production by the pituitary gland. TSH, 17-hydroxyprogesterone and prolactin are routinely undertaken. Elevated Androstenedione, DHEAs or Testosterone confirm the diagnosis. Insulin and glucose levels may be playing a role in stimulating the development of PCOS. As women with polysystic ovary syndrome are also at greater risk for other medical conditions, testing for blood lipids are helpful.