Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review of Current Knowledge

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disease of women of reproductive age, yet it remains undiagnosed for many women. The reason the syndrome is often not diagnosed or is misdiagnosed is because PCOS can present with a variety of abnormalities that can be present in other endocrine dysfunctions and problems. Concerns about abnormal menses, an inability to conceive, or cosmetic problems often are what bring these women into the clinical setting. The disease is the result of a defect in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian circuit, but the cause is unknown. With appropriate diagnosis and management, the patient may delay or prevent negative physical and psychological consequences brought on by this syndrome.