Recent developments in polycystic ovary syndrome

The understanding of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has evolved from traditional concepts of a mainly gynaecological condition associated with infertility, to current concepts which include a metabolic component characterized by insulin resistance, a possible genetic aetiology and potentially disturbing longer-term health risks.

This review article discusses these new developments and the implications for the clinical management of women with PCOS. It is clear that the syndrome cannot be explained easily by a single unifying hypothesis, but rather that the symptoms in PCOS most likely arise from a complex interplay between genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors. New developments in molecular biology (micro-arrays and proteomics) and bio-informatics should lead to a better understanding of this complexity.