Endocrine Abstracts

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal, metabolic and reproductive disorder characterized by androgen excess, ovulatory dysfunction and polycystic ovaries. The phenotypic presentation might differ between referral and unselected populations and varies within an individual over time and between individuals of different ethnic and geographic regions. Women with PCOS have increased prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes and have multiple risk factors for cardiometabolic disease and other comorbidities such as obstructive sleep apnea, endometrial cancer and mood disorders, which contribute to the health burden of the syndrome. The pathophysiology and intrinsic mechanisms underlying PCOS are complex with a strong genetic component. Earlier studies have proposed several clinical and biochemical features for the male equivalent of PCOS, including premature baldness, increased adrenal androgen levels, insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. Even though the phenotype for male PCOS is still uncertain, available data from family studies suggest an increased risk for metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes in fathers and brothers of women with PCOS along with mothers and sisters. Recent studies provide evidence that PCOS-associated genetic risk for cardiometabolic disease could affect both women and men. Overall, the current name of “PCOS” might be misleading, not reflecting the complexity of the syndrome.