Medicus, Vol. 19 No. 1_Adolescencija_2, 2010.
Review article
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Ivana Pentz
; Klinička bolnica Sestre milosrdnice
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder characterized by chronic anovulation, clinical and/or biochemical hyperandrogenism, and/or polycystic looking ovaries. Hyperandrogenism is mostly considered to be the main characteristic of PCOS. There are several theories about the PCOS origin. Over the past 20 years there has been growing evidence supporting defects in insulin action as central in the pathogenesis of this syndrome. Most women with PCOS are insulin resistant, in part due to genetic predisposition and in part due to obesity. The incidence of PCOS is from 15% to 25%, and it seems to be more frequent among adolescents, about 25%. The diagnostic criteria for PCOS include two of the three characteristics specified above. In addition to anamnestic data and physical examination, diagnosis requires biochemical tests and ultrasound examination of ovaries. Treatment of PCOS depends on patient’s age, symptoms and signs of this syndrome, as well as on reproduction intentions. Hormone therapy, insulin sensitizing drugs and surgical approach are the therapeutic options. However, the first measure is to adopt a healthy lifestyle, especially reducing the body weight in adipose patients, which, in combination with some other therapeutic procedures, leads to the optimal therapy effect. It also helps reduce the risk of some cancers and improve the quality of life.
Keywords
polycystic ovaries; hyperandrogenemia; hyperinsulinemia; hormone therapy; insulin sensitizing drugs
Hrčak ID:
59999
URI
Publication date:
15.6.2010.
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