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Panminerva Medica 2005 December;47(4):211-7

Copyright © 2009 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: English

Insulin resistance syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome: implications for diagnosis and treatment

Tan S., Hahn S., Janssen O. E.

Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine University Hospital of Essen Medical School Essen, Germany

Both insulin resistance syndrome (IRS) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are common endocrinopathies. IRS, usually associated with ages of 50+, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD), is highly prevalent in young PCOS patients, exceeding the expected rate from their prevailing obesity. While it is clear that women with PCOS cluster risk factors, prospective studies to prove a higher morbidity and mortality from T2DM and CVD are not available. Nevertheless, apart from cosmetic concerns and gynecological problems, therapeutic intervention should also be designed to reduce the metabolic risk of PCOS, which may well be the main determinant of long-term health in affected women.