Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Adolescence

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in females, and is characterized by ovulatory dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology based on ultrasound. Controversy surrounds the optimum diagnosis and management in the adolescent population. Many patients with adult PCOS present with pathognomonic symptoms as adolescents, and there is value in early diagnosis due to the associated long-term metabolic and reproductive health sequalae. A definitive diagnosis does not need to be made prior to implementing treatment in this group of young women. The practitioner who has an adolescent presenting with signs and symptoms of PCOS, has a unique opportunity to risk stratify, screen for co-morbidities, and implement early management strategies, many of which are lifestyle modifications, to help prevent long term morbidity associated with this disease.