[Advance in treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome].

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder of uncertain origin, which has been defined as the association of androgen excess with chronic anovulation in women without specific ovarian, adrenal and pituitary gland syndromes. Recent studies have shown that PCOS is associated with hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance and may lead to some cardiovascular diseases. Early diagnosis and therapy of this disease reduces or even reverses the reproductive and metabolic morbidities and reduces risk factors for cardiovascular disorders. The new data concerning the pathogenesis and management of PCOS have changed its treatment strategy. The management of polycystic ovary syndrome is now complex and includes life style modifications, dietary-induced weight loss, oral contraceptives, clomiphene citrate, gonadotropins, antiandrogens and insulin-sensitising agents. In this article, we review all these treatment options. Although both standard and novel therapies are discussed, special attention is paid to the progress made in the recent years.