Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

This chapter deals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It provides the background information of the disease, and discusses its prevention, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and evidence. PCOS is most commonly defined by the Rotterdam criteria, requiring at least two of the following three signs/symptoms: oligo- or anovulation, clinical or biochemical evidence of hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology. The exact pathogenesis remains unknown but characteristic pathology includes elevated secretion and/or concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH). PCOS will typically present as the young postmenarcheal female who reports a long-standing history of irregular or absent periods. There are five main domains that may require treatment: irregular bleeding, hirsutism, weight, mood disorders, and infertility. Each should be assessed regularly. The main reason for hospitalization required for PCOS would be severe ovarian hyperstimulation after fertility treatment with injectable gonadotropins.