CONDITION NAME POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME

PRESENTING COMPLAINT(S) COMMENTS

 Irregular menstrual  Hirsutism, acne There is often a family history of similar presentation
cycles  The diagnosis is made on the following criteria
 Amenorrhoea  Oligo- or anovulation
 Anovulatory infertility
 Hyperandrogenism
 Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound
ANATOMY PHYSIOLOGY BIOCHEMISTRY
 Overweight with central obesity  Experiences spells of amenorrhoea and irregular  Serum abnormalities fairly common
 Acne bleeding  Raised levels of androgens particularly
 Unwanted hair  May present with infertility, hirsutism testosterone
 Raised lipids
 Insulin resistance
CHEMICAL PATHOLOGY ANATOMICAL PATHOLOGY MICROBIOLOGY
 Selection of endocrine investigations  Ovarian enlargement with a polycystic appearance  Not applicable
 Often association with the metabolic syndrome Can be detected ultrasonically

PUBLIC HEALTH PRIMARY HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL VALUES /BIOETHICS

 The commonest endocrine disorder in women of  Typically presents in primary care  Requires sensitive questioning and handling of
reproductive age patients values and wishes
CLINICAL SKILLS DATA INTERPRETATION PROCEDURAL SKILLS
 Careful personal, gynaecological and family history  Summation of history, examination and special 
investigations to reach a diagnosis
PRINCIPLES OF TREATMENT BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS
 Lifestyle adjustment  Requires ongoing and supportive role of
 Depends on patient’s requirements- fertility healthcare provider as treatment is long-term
treatment vs. symptoms  Family support as self-image and reproductive
function are intimately connected
 Essential to ensure family members offered
screening.