Author(s):

Bintey Zehra and Khursheed AA

Abstract: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex condition branded by elevated hormone levels, menstrual irregularities, and/or tiny cysts on one or each ovary. The disorder can be physiological (polycystic ovaries) or biochemical (hyperandrogenemia). Hyperandrogenism, a hallmark sign of PCOS, can cause inhibition of follicular development, cysts in the ovaries, anovulation, and menstrual changes. Environmental factors implicated in PCOS (e.g., obesity) can be aggravated by poor dietary choices and physical inactivity; infectious agents and toxins may also play a role. The physiopathology of PCOS involves primary defects in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, insulin secretion and action, and ovarian function. Although the cause of PCOS is unknown, PCOS has been linked to insulin resistance and obesity. Follicular maturation arrest is a hallmark indication that an ovarian abnormality exists. PCOS continues to be a common cause of infertility among women. Although signs and symptoms vary, the three most common factors associated with PCOS include menstrual irregularities, increased androgen levels, and cystic ovaries. PCOS status is expected to have a long-term effect in women, particularly the development of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and hormone-dependent disease. According to the National Institutes of Health, PCOS affects approximately 5 million women of childbearing age in the U.S. Costs to the U.S. healthcare system for the identification and management of PCOS are approximately $4 billion per year.

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