Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Advances in Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management

This chapter synthesizes current evidence on the heterogeneous pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), encompassing its neuroendocrine, metabolic, and ovarian components, and reviews the most recent international diagnostic criteria and their clinical applicability. It critically evaluates therapeutic strategies across the reproductive, metabolic, and psychological domains of PCOS, including pharmacologic agents, lifestyle interventions, and emerging approaches such as gut microbiome modulation and novel insulin sensitizers. The chapter also addresses the long-term health risks associated with PCOS — including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer — and the evidence supporting proactive surveillance in affected individuals.