Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) : An Overview

Abstract

PCOS is a common gynecological disorder. While the etiology of this condition is still unknown, several abnormalities involving the pathophysiology of this syndrome have been demonstrated. Diagnosis of PCOS usually relies on clinical, biochemical and ultrasonic appearance of the ovary which is not difficult in most cases. Apart from suffering from menstrual disturbances, androgenic symptoms and infertility, if left untreated, this patient has high risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma, breast cancer, diabetes mellitus, hyper tension and cardiovascular disease. Several therapeutic options are now available. For those who do not immediately desire pregnancy, treatment with combined oral contraceptives or progestogen is usually effective. For infertile women, ovulation induction, medically, is successful in most cases. Surgical treatment (cauterization of small peripheral cysts) is another alternative in selected case. (Thai J Obstet Gynaecol 1994;6:141-148.)