Patient's question:
A 59-year-old woman has recently been feeling quite tired and has noticed that her body is not feeling healthy. Could this be due to this condition? Please ask: How is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) diagnosed?Doctor's answer:
This first step involves combining her medical history, menstrual irregularities, which refers to irregular menstrual cycles, such as prolonged periods, unpredictable cycles, or even secondary amenorrhea (absence of menstruation for several months), with her physical characteristics, including excessive obesity, heavy body hair, and even acanthosis nigricans on her neck. Careful observation is necessary. Additionally, we can perform an ultrasound examination, which may reveal enlarged ovaries bilaterally and multiple small follicles developing together, often described as (pearl-like) or (necklace-like). The ultrasound confirms that the bilateral ovarian follicles are greater than twelve to fifteen in number, indicating the development of small follicles. Then, we will draw blood to check the hormone levels.