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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Exact pathophysiology = unclear
- often have raised testosterone
- inappropriate gonadotrophin secretion - probably as a result of ovarian dysfunction rather than cause
- most common hormonal abnormalities: excess Luteinising hormone (LH) and Insulin resistance
Diagnostic criteria have varied over the years and vary according to authority group! Include the following:
- evidence of ovarian dysfunction
- exclusion of other disorders - eg other hormonal causes (Hypothyroidism, Hyperprolactinaemia, Cushing’s disease)
- biochemical evidence of hyperandrogenism
- ?USS evidence
Major features
- menstrual dysfunction - usually a chronic pattern
- anovulation
- signs of hyperandrogenism - male hair distribution, acne
- ~50% are obese
- Acanthosis nigricans - possibly due to insulin resistance
- Hypertension
- chronic pelvic pain
treatments aimed at so-called metabolic derangements, such as anovulation, hirsutism, and menstrual irregularities. Ovarian Pathology
References include:
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/256806-overview
https://teachmeobgyn.com/gynaecology/ovarian/polycystic-ovary-syndrome/