By Joseph Hazan,M.D., FACOG
This condition is found in 5 to 10% of all
women. 75% of cases are seen
in obese women and 25% are seen
in lean women.
There is a familial or hereditary component,
in that sisters of affected
individuals also have this condition.
It is characterized by an altered gene
near the insulin receptor at
chromosome 19.
Weight gain is a predisposing factor and is associated
with insulin resistance and chronic androgenic
(long-term testosterone
dominance) with lack of ovulation.
Because of androgen dominance a feature
of PCOS is hirsutism (increased
facial and male type hair pattern).
Also, due to the insulin resistance,
there could be metabolic syndrome
(please see the post on this) and increased
risk of type 2 diabetes.
Because of these last two conditions there can also
be sleep disorders (please see the related post)
and cardiovascular disease
(please see the post about heart disease
in women).
Most women who have PCOS present with
infertility, although sometimes
thyroid problems and high blood pressure
can be present.
Blood tests of hormones and ultrasound
are used for diagnosis.
Treatment is directed at weight loss,
caloric restriction,
restoration of normal hormonal function
and lipid metabolism.
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