Connecting polycystic ovary syndrome and pilonidal disease in adolescents: State of the art review

Abstract

Pilonidal disease is a dermatologic condition of the natal cleft that affects primarily adolescents. Its severity ranges from asymptomatic to chronically recurring disease. Like pilonidal disease, polycystic ovary syndrome commonly begins to affect women in their adolescence. PCOS is increasing in prevalence, affecting 6–20 % of women, and can significantly compromise quality of life by contributing to acne, weight gain, hirsutism, development of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, mental disorders and infertility. It is therefore increasingly important to be aware of a recently reported association between polycystic ovary syndrome and pilonidal disease within the female adolescent population. The conditions share common risk factors such as obesity, hyperandrogenism, and metabolic syndrome. Early diagnosis of these conditions is important in mitigating morbidity associated with either disease. This clinical opinion suggests a reciprocal pathway for management of female adolescents who may be suffering from either polycystic ovary syndrome or pilonidal disease, with the goal of providing comprehensive management and mitigating morbidity.