Clinical Evaluation of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract

The goals of the clinical evaluation of women with possible polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) include: (1) making the proper diagnosis (excluding other more serious diagnoses); (2) determining whether to screen for associated health complications of PCOS in the patient and/or her family members; (3) determining the appropriate current treatment; and (4) discussing a long-term management plan for the patient. The clinical evaluation begins with a complete medical history and physical examination. Although the evaluation will naturally focus on those areas of greatest concern to the patient, the clinician must remember the myriad associated health abnormalities that can occur with PCOS and has a responsibility to evaluate all the health impacts of the condition on the patient, whether or not intervention is currently requested or required.