ABSTRACT

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder that affects 6-8% of reproductive aged women.1 Despite the prevalence of this disorder, its definition remains controversial. The 2003 joint meeting of the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ESHRE/ASRM) defined PCOS as having at least two of the following three criteria: (1) chronic oligo-or anovulation, (2) hyperandrogenemia or clinical evidence of androgen excess, and (3) polycystic ovaries.2 Furthermore, other etiologies of hyperandrogenism or anovulation, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen secreting tumors, or Cushing’s syndrome, must be excluded prior to making the diagnosis of PCOS (Table 12.1).