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Anovulation |
| Menstrual irregularity and
anovulation associated with excessive ovarian production of male sex
hormones, manifested by hirsutism, oily skin and acne, is the most common
endocrine disturbance of women of reproductive age. As many as 10% of
women of reproductive age suffer from these symptoms, usually referred to
as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) because of the frequent association of
the endocrine disturbance with enlarged ovaries containing multiple
follicular cysts. PCOS is a cause of infertility and it has recently been
recognized to be associated with long-term risks of diabetes and
cardiovascular disease.
Despite the fact that PCOS has been known as a clinical entity for some 60 years, there is still debate about the criteria that should be used in diagnosing the condition. The causes of the disorder are more obscure. While there is evidence to suggest that PCOS has a genetic component, the nature and number of genetic loci involved, and their mode of inheritance and penetrance are debated. Arguments supporting claims for primary defects in hypothalamic/pituitary function, the ovary and adrenal glands, and insulin and insulin-like growth factor action co-exist in the literature, making PCOS a disease of theories (25). It appears likely that PCOS is caused or influenced by more than one gene and may, in fact, reflect a general metabolic disturbance. Although polycystic ovaries, which commonly occur in association with hyperandrogenemic anovulation, can be produced by various treatments in laboratory animals, it is not evident that these animal systems bear any pathophysiologic resemblance to the human syndrome. While there are several successful therapies for the anovulatory infertility of PCOS, not all patients respond to standard treatment and successful ovulation and conception in women with PCOS more frequently ends inexplicably in early pregnancy loss. It is not known whether this reflects abnormalities in the germ cells or an abnormal response of the ovary and/or uterus to ovulation induction. |
| Diseases&Treatments |
Disclaimer: This information is intended as a guide only. This information is offered to you with the understanding that it not be interpreted as medical or professional advice. All medical information needs to be carefully reviewed with your health care provider.
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Women |
Men |