Detecting polycystic ovarian syndrome in teens

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), an endocrine disorder characterized by hyperandrogenism and anovulation, begins at or before puberty.¹ Even though this is well accepted, diagnosing the condition in adolescents remains challenging. That's because the relatively short duration of exposure to elevated androgens may be less likely to lead to the classic signs of androgen excess that are characteristically seen in adult women. Just how widespread is PCOS among reproductive-aged women? It's estimated at 5% to 1O%.^1,2 Our goal here is to provide gynecologists with a guide to diagnosing and managing PCOS in adolescents.