Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review Article

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal and gynecological disorder that affects many women of reproductive age. Although some mechanisms involved in its development are known, its exact cause and how it works are still not fully understood. Women with PCOS often have long-term lack of ovulation and high levels of male hormones as main hormonal features. This condition can affect females from conception to death, posing various health risks and thereby reducing quality of life. PCOS symptoms usually start during early puberty. Irregular periods and lack of ovulation can be seen in both PCOS and normal puberty in girls. Depending on the diagnostic criteria used, approximately 6%–22% of women of reproductive age are estimated to be affected by PCOS. As long as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome remains a syndrome rather than a single disease, no individual sign such as elevated androgen levels (hyperandrogenism) or the presence of polycystic ovaries can be relied upon alone for a definitive clinical diagnosis. The management of women with PCOS is based on the specific symptoms they present. These may include menstrual irregularities, androgen-related symptoms, or infertility due to ovulatory dysfunction. In females with PCOS, anovulation is associated with low follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and arrest of antral follicle growth in the final stages of maturation. The condition can be treated surgically with laparoscopic ovarian drilling or medically using agents such as aromatase inhibitors, metformin, glucocorticoids, clomiphene citrate (CC), tamoxifen, or gonadotropins. Patients may present with varying androgenic symptoms, including hirsutism, acne, and/or alopecia. Those experiencing these distressing symptoms require appropriate management. This review highlights its role in the management of various clinical conditions."