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B11. Hyperandrogenic disorders, PCOS: Difference between revisions

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== Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) ==
== Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) ==
Polycystic ovary syndrome is characterised by oligomenorrhoea, hyperandrogenism, and anovulation. It’s a common disorder, as it affects approx. 10% of women. It’s the most common cause of hyperandrogenism in females.
<section begin="clinical biochemistry" />Polycystic ovary syndrome is characterised by oligomenorrhoea, hyperandrogenism, and anovulation. It’s a common disorder, as it affects approx. 10% of women. It’s the most common cause of hyperandrogenism in females.


Symptoms usually begin in adolescence.
Symptoms usually begin in adolescence.
 
<section end="clinical biochemistry" />
=== Risk factors ===
=== Risk factors ===


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The chronic anovulation is a risk factor for endometrial hyperplasia and cancer.
The chronic anovulation is a risk factor for endometrial hyperplasia and cancer.
 
<section begin="clinical biochemistry" />
=== Diagnosis and evaluation ===
=== Diagnosis and evaluation ===
We should test for biochemical evidence of hyperandrogenism, by measuring serum androgens. We can also measure an LH:FSH ratio of > 3:1.
We should test for biochemical evidence of hyperandrogenism, by measuring serum androgens. We can also measure an LH:FSH ratio of > 3:1.
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After diagnosis, we should screen for diabetic, cardiovascular, and hepatic complications.
After diagnosis, we should screen for diabetic, cardiovascular, and hepatic complications.
 
<section end="clinical biochemistry" />
=== Differential diagnosis ===
=== Differential diagnosis ===
It’s important to rule out other causes of oligomenorrhoea:
It’s important to rule out other causes of oligomenorrhoea: