Trends in Standard Workup Performed by Pediatric Subspecialists for the Diagnosis of Adolescent Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study is to identify trends in the clinical workup, diagnosis, and treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome by pediatric endocrinologists, pediatric gynecologists, and adolescent medicine specialists.DesignRetrospective chart review.SettingTertiary care medical center.ParticipantsFemales aged 11-18 y who were evaluated for PCOS from June 2009 to October 2011 were included. Any patients with coexisting diagnoses of other primary etiology for amenorrhea were excluded. Patients were identified by ICD-9 codes for PCOS, hypersecretion of ovarian androgens, irregular menses, hirsutism, oligomenorrhea, or amenorrhea. 261 patients were included: 144 from endocrinology, 9 from gynecology, and 108 from adolescent pediatric practices.ResultsThere were no significant differences in the androgen labs ordered by the subspecialties. Gynecologists ordered pelvic ultrasonography for 89% (n = 8) of patients, compared to 9% (n = 10) by adolescent medicine specialists and 24% (n = 34) by endocrinologists (P < .0001). Endocrinologists were most likely to treat patients who met diagnostic criteria for PCOS with metformin (58%, n = 66), compared to gynecologists (14%, n = 1) and adolescent medicine specialists (5%, n = 3) (P < .0001). Gynecologists (43%, n = 3) and adolescent medicine specialists (58%, n = 39) were more likely than endocrinologists (24%, n = 27) to treat patients with oral contraceptive pills (P < .0001).ConclusionsInconsistent diagnosis and treatment strategies for young women with PCOS are evident among pediatric subspecialties, reflecting lack of standardized care for adolescents. Quantifying outcomes based on diagnostic and therapeutic approaches are important next steps.