What is adolescent polycystic ovary syndrome?
Date
2018
Authors
Peña, A.
Metz, M.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health, 2018; 54(4):351-355
Statement of Responsibility
Alexia S Peña and Michael Metz
Conference Name
Abstract
The diagnostic criteria for adolescent polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has been derived from adult criteria, which makes diagnosis challenging as criteria include normal physiological events that occur during puberty such as acne, hirsutism, menstrual irregularities, high androgen levels and polycystic ovarian morphology on pelvic ultrasound. The only criteria that applies from the adult criteria is exclusion of other conditions that mimic PCOS. Clinical findings consistent with hyperandrogenaemia during adolescence include inflammatory acne, hirsutism, alopecia and/or menstrual irregularities, which are severe and present 2 years after menarche. The measurement of androgen levels during adolescence should take into account age, puberty, type of androgen measured, assay used and diurnal rhythm. Multiple measurements are useful to demonstrate hyperandrogenaemia. The combination, severity and persistence of the hyperandrogenic symptoms and hyperandrogenaemia in girls 2 years or more post-menarche support the diagnosis of adolescent PCOS. Adolescent girls with these findings should be followed up into adulthood.
School/Discipline
Dissertation Note
Provenance
Description
Access Status
Rights
© 2017 Paediatrics and Child Health Division (The Royal Australasian College of Physicians)