What are the diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome?
Apr 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Polycystic refers to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), whose diagnostic criteria include clinical symptoms, serological tests, and pelvic ultrasound examination. PCOS causes ovulatory dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, and manifestations of insulin resistance. Tests including six sex hormone assays, serum prolactin, fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, and thyroid-stimulating hormone are performed to evaluate insulin, glucose, and sex hormone levels. Pelvic ultrasound is used to confirm ovarian structure.
Polycystic usually refers to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), whose diagnostic criteria include clinical symptoms, serological tests, and ultrasound examinations. The details are as follows:
1. Clinical Symptoms
Polycystic ovary syndrome can cause ovulatory dysfunction, manifesting as oligomenorrhea (scant menstrual flow), amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), irregular vaginal bleeding, or infertility. It may also lead to signs of hyperandrogenism such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth), acne, and hair loss. Additionally, it can result in obesity and metabolic abnormalities such as impaired glucose and lipid metabolism, indicating insulin resistance.
2. Serological Tests
Measuring sex hormone levels (six-panel test), serum prolactin, fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, and thyroid-stimulating hormone helps evaluate the patient's insulin, glucose, and various sex hormone levels, aiding in disease diagnosis.
3. Ultrasound Examination
It is recommended to perform ultrasound examination at least one month after discontinuing hormonal medications, or during days 3–5 of the menstrual cycle. This allows clear visualization of ovarian structure and serves as a basis for diagnosing polycystic ovary syndrome.
In addition, gynecological examinations assessing pubic hair distribution and clitoral size may also assist in diagnosis. Once diagnosed, patients should promptly seek medical care and receive active treatment under a physician's guidance.
