Obesity, oligomenorrhoea and PCOS in adolescence

Abstract

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy affecting female reproductive health. The diagnosis of PCOS in adolescence is challenging due to the high prevalence of menstrual dysfunction and acne in the normal adolescent population. Hirsutism should prompt further investigation and alert the clinician to the possibility of PCOS. Early identification of adolescents at risk of PCOS with timeous intervention may impact on long term metabolic and cardiovascular health.