title: Polycystic ovary syndrome: challenges in adolescence.
abstract: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine diseases in women of reproductive age. PCOS typically develops during adolescence and is a heterogeneous syndrome classically characterized by features of anovulation combined with signs of androgen excess (hirsutism, acne). Increasing obesity in adolescents probably exacerbates signs of PCOS, contributing to its earlier recognition. Recognizing the features of this syndrome can be very challenging in adolescence. Although adolescents' concerns are often cosmetic, if left untreated these girls are at risk for diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and infertility as they mature. Efforts should be made to diagnose and treat PCOS to minimize the development of symptoms and prevent the onset of cardiovascular and metabolic disturbances.
authors: Endocrinology Department, Hospital de São João-EPE, Porto, Portugal. nisampaiooliveira@gmail.com
authors: Ana
authors: A
authors: Oliveira
authors: Bernarda
authors: B
authors: Sampaio
authors: Ana
authors: A
authors: Teixeira
authors: Cíntia
authors: C
authors: Castro-Correia
authors: Manuel
authors: M
authors: Fontoura
authors: José
authors: J
authors: Luís Medina
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000465:Algorithms; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011085:Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy