Diagnosis, epidemiology, and genetics of the polycystic ovary syndrome

Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2006 Jun;20(2):193-205. doi: 10.1016/j.beem.2006.02.005.

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous disorder, and its definition remains fluid and controversial. PCOS is characterized by clinical and/or biochemical hyperandrogenism, and is frequently accompanied by ovulatory dysfunction and polycystic ovaries. PCOS is a diagnosis of exclusion, with other androgen excess and related disorders to be excluded. The prevalence of PCOS is 6.5-8.0% of unselected women of reproductive age, using the NIH 1990 criteria. Genetically, PCOS is a common, complex disorder. Despite repeated attempts to identify the putative gene or genes responsible for this disorder, the PCOS gene(s) remain elusive.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Europe / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Phenotype
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome* / classification
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome* / epidemiology
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome* / genetics
  • Prevalence