Diagnosis and treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome and insulin resistance.

PCOS is a complex syndrome that includes clinical and biochemical evidence of hyperandrogenism and hyperinsulinism. Adolescents with PCOS are affected by the diagnosis with both short-term and long-term consequences. Adolescents with PCOS report lower self-esteem and quality of life, based on standard assessments, when compared with age matched peers. These young women also are concerned about future fertility, which may affect psychological well being and health behaviors. In addition, patients with PCOS are at an increased risk for development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, this identified at-risk group requires rigorous evaluation, treatment and long-term counseling and management by healthcare providers.