Polycystic ovary syndrome: current status and future perspective

Front Biosci (Elite Ed). 2014 Jan 1;6(1):104-19. doi: 10.2741/e695.

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a widespread reproductive disorder that encompasses many associated health conditions and has an impact on various metabolic processes. PCOS is depicted by hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovaries, and anovulation. It increases the risk of insulin resistance (IR), type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. The etiology of the disease remains unclear, and the subjective phenotype makes a united diagnosis difficult among physicians. It seems to be a familial genetic syndrome caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. It can be linked with metabolic disorders in first-degree family members. PCOS is the cause of up to 30% of infertility in couples seeking treatment. Currently, there is no cure for PCOS. Despite the growing incidence of this syndrome, limited research has been done that encompasses the entirety of PCOS spectrum. In this review, the current status and possible future perspective will be discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Androgens / blood
  • Disease Management*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperandrogenism / pathology
  • Infertility, Female / etiology
  • Insulin Resistance / physiology
  • Laparoscopy / methods
  • Metformin / therapeutic use
  • Obesity / physiopathology
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / complications
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / etiology*
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / genetics
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / pathology
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / therapy*
  • PubMed
  • Research / trends*

Substances

  • Androgens
  • Metformin