12th April 2024

Clinical features

This syndrome is characterised by weight gain, oligomenorrhoea, subfertility and features of hyperandrogenism (acne, hirsutism and alopecia). Insulin resistance can lead to thickening and dark discolouration of the axilla, neck and groin, known as acanthosis nigricans. PCOS is linked with cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, obstructive sleep apnoea, depression and a tenfold risk of developing type 2 diabetes.