What is polycystic ovary syndrome?

Abstract

This article offers a broad overview of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), including the prevalence, genetic disorder, pathogenesis and metabolic disorder concerned with PCOS. Until recently, the most widely accepted clinical definition of PCOS was the association of hyperandrogenism with chronic anovulation in women without specific underlying disease of the adrenal or pituitary gland. Early descriptions of the syndrome were based on ovarian morphology, but this was not considered an essential requirement for the diagnosis. However, recent application of modern, high-resolution diagnostic ultrasonography has again tipped the balance towards a more morphologically based diagnosis. The diagnostic criteria for PCOS have now been revised and require at least two of the following features: polycystic ovaries; oligo-ovulation or anovulation; clinical and/or biochemical evidence of androgen excess.