A hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age, PCOS often presents with a range of symptoms that complicate its diagnosis. Early detection is important for effective management and for minimizing the risk of long-term complications like infertility, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Key Steps in Diagnosing PCOS
Medical History Review:
- A detailed review of the patient’s menstrual cycle, weight fluctuations, and family history of PCOS or diabetes is crucial.
- Symptoms such as irregular periods, significant weight gain, and family predispositions are key indicators.
Physical Examination
- The doctor examines for physical signs of PCOS, including excessive facial or body hair, acne, and skin changes like darkened patches (acanthosis nigricans).
- These signs are often linked to insulin resistance, a common feature in PCOS.
Blood Tests
- Hormone levels, especially androgens (male hormones like testosterone), are measured to detect any imbalances.
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) tests are conducted to evaluate ovarian function.
- Additional tests like a lipid profile and glucose tolerance test are performed to identify related conditions such as dyslipidemia and insulin resistance.
Imaging Studies
- A pelvic ultrasound is typically used to visualize the ovaries, checking for the presence of multiple small cysts, which is a hallmark of PCOS.
- It is important to note that the presence of cysts alone is not sufficient for a PCOS diagnosis, as they can also be found in women without the syndrome.
Diagnosis Criteria
PCOS is usually diagnosed based on the Rotterdam criteria, which require at least two of the following three features:
- Irregular ovulation
- Elevated androgen levels
- Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound
