Ivica Lazúrová
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of hyperandrogenic state and also the most common
cause of infertility in women. There is evidence that PCOS is associated with the metabolic syndrome (MS) or
its components and represents a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular morbidity. Relationship between steroid
hormones and cardiovascular risk factors has been evaluated by many studies. Majority of them confirmed a positive
association between visceral fat and serum testosterone levels. In addition association of testosterone with
insulin, glycemia and triacylglycerols has been demonstrated by many studies. Approximately 30% of women with
PCOS have increased levels of adrenal androgens, especially dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulphate
(DHEAS). It occurs in non obese PCOS women who have lower cardiometabolic risk. Treatment of PCOS includes
management of chronic anovulation and infertility, managment of hyperandrogenic state. Treatment should be focused
on cardiometabolic risk factors. All PCOS women should be followed up for measurement of waist circumference,
body mass index, blood pressure, glucose metabolism and lipid profile.