What is the Origin of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

The syndrome was first described in 1935 by Stein and Leventhal, who observed amenorrhea and hirsutism in women with enlarged, polycystic ovaries. The name 'Polycystic Ovary Syndrome' reflects the characteristic ovarian appearance, although the underlying pathology is systemic and metabolic, not purely ovarian. Modern understanding emphasizes the central role of insulin resistance in driving the hyperandrogenic state.

What is the Mechanism of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Insulin resistance leads to compensatory hyperinsulinemia, which acts on ovarian theca cells to enhance androgen production, contributing to the clinical signs of hyperandrogenism. This elevated androgen level disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, impairing follicular development and preventing ovulation, resulting in anovulation and the formation of multiple small cysts. The chronic endocrine imbalance perpetuates the cycle of metabolic and reproductive dysfunction.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) ∞ Area ∞ Library 2

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Meaning

A common, complex endocrine disorder in women characterized by a constellation of symptoms, including hyperandrogenism, chronic anovulation, and the presence of polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound. PCOS is fundamentally a disorder of metabolic and reproductive dysregulation, often associated with insulin resistance and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Diagnosis relies on specific clinical and biochemical criteria.