The polycystic ovary syndrome.

Much is known about the pathophysiology and pathogenesis of the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCO). The key clinical features are inappropriate gonadotropin secretion, altered production rates, binding and metabolism of steroids and androgen excess, all resulting in defeminization, anovulatory infertility, obesity and endometrial hyperplasia. Management should be based on the patient's reproductive goals. Adjunct measures can control hirsutism.