Institute of Clinical Medicine I, Policlinico University Paolo Giaccone, Palermo, Italy.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder occurring during female reproductive years, characterized by a number of heterogeneous clinical and biochemical features. Clinical presentation is characterized by hirsutism, acne, androgen-dependent alopecia, menstrual dysfunction, infertility and ultrasonographically-documented cystic ovaries. Tonic elevation of luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion is a regular feature of PCOS. Abnormal secretion of estrogen and high serum levels of free testosterone are also present. In addition to these endocrine abnormalities, specific metabolic alterations, such as hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance are more frequent. Metabolic derangements associated with PCOS may predispose the patient to a range of diseases with attendant morbidity and mortality risks, so it is important to consider the syndrome in terms of both endocrine and metabolic aspects, achieving a correct hormone equilibrium and preventing metabolic alterations.