J Korean Soc Pediatr Endocrinol.  2008 Jun;13(1):21-28.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Adolescence

• Hwang IT

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a syndrome of variable combinations of menstrual irregularity, hirsutism, and obesity. It is frequently diagnosed during adolescence and may be increasing in prevalence secondary to obesity among teenagers. It is associated with ovulatory dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, hyperinsulinism, and insulin resistance, and a major risk factor for metabolic syndrome and type 2 DM later in life. The goals of therapy in treating teenagers with PCOS has focused on managing body weight, improving self esteem by lessening acne and hirsutism, and regulating menses. Identifying girls at risk for PCOS and implementing treatment early in the development of PCOS may be an effective means of preventing some of the long-term complications associated with this syndrome.

Keyword

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome; Adolescence

MeSH Terms

Acne Vulgaris
Adolescent
Body Weight
Female
Hirsutism
Humans
Hyperandrogenism
Hyperinsulinism
Insulin Resistance
Obesity
Ovary
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Prevalence
Risk Factors
Self Concept