Polycystic ovary syndrome: relationship to growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor-I, and insulin.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is frequently encountered by the practicing gynecologist and can be a difficult and frustrating disease process to treat. The cause of this syndrome remains elusive and may be multifactorial. The role of growth hormone, insulin, and insulin-like growth factor-I, as related to polycystic ovary syndrome, has received considerable interest. The exact relationships of these factors have not been fully elucidated, though recent studies have begun to shed new light on this complex issue. A better understanding of the pathophysiology will ultimately lead to more appropriate treatment modalities.