Polycystic ovary syndrome - diagnosis and etiology

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogenous condition with signs and symptoms including menstrual dysfunction, weight disorders, hirsutism, acne, endometrial hyperplasia, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome and hyperlipidemia. As such, diagnosis is controversial and differs between countries and communities. By consensus, recent definitions highlight ovarian morphology, hyperandrogenism and menstrual dysfunction. Etiology is undetermined and may include genetic and environmental aspects, including lifestyle factors such as reduced activity and high caloric diet. Hyperinsulinaemia is common, even in the absence of obesity, and may be one of the causes for hyperandrogenism. Genetic causes are ill-determined at present but may include genes related to insulin secretion, insulin receptor function, ovarian steroidogenesis and paracrine regulators of ovarian function