title: [Polycystic ovary syndrome].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  In May 2003, leading American and European experts reached a consensus for the definition of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This consensus implies that the same criteria can be used when research on PCOS is performed, which is fundamental to further knowledge development.
  
  
  METHODS
  The present review is based on a search in PubMed/Medline and personal clinical experience.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Based on existing knowledge, women with PCOS have an increased risk of overweight, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and most likely certain types of gynaecologic cancer. Treatment of PCOS should therefore not only be symptomatic, focusing on existing symptoms. In addition, prophylactic measures should also be initiated. This change in treatment philosophy is a huge challenge to all doctors. In order to correctly diagnosing PCOS, general practitioners need to co-operate with gynaecologists. For optimal management of PCOS, general practitioners as well as gynaecologists have to be aware of the diagnostic criteria; the syndrome should be diagnosed as early as possible and the patient informed about the syndrome. The doctor and the patient should decide upon a long-term follow-up strategy together.
authors.affiliation: Kvinneklinikken Førde sentralsjukehus, 6807 Førde. erling.ekerhovd@helse-forde.no
authors.forename: Erling
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Ekerhovd
mesh_terms: D032921:Consensus; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D024821:Metabolic Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy; D011085:Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic