[Chronic complications of polycystic ovary syndrome. Review]

In addition to neuroendocrine abnormalities, women with polycystic ovary syndrome have insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction associated with a high frequency of metabolic syndrome components, such as glucose intolerance, type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM-2), dyslipidemia and a higher risk for endothelial dysfunction, haemostatic abnormalities, hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Obesity, a common finding in this disorder, plays an important role in the development of metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Early identification of patients and prompt initiation of insulin sensitizing therapy by pharmacological agents or changes in life style such diet and exercise might improve the metabolic and endocrine abnormalities and reduce the risk of DM-2 and cardiovascular disease in these patients.