Which of the following is a recognized risk associated with PCOS?

Which of the following is a recognized risk associated with PCOS?

• A. Ovarian cancer.
• B. Endometrial hyperplasia.
• C. Hyperthyroidism.
• D. Osteoporosis.

Answer: (B)

In PCOS, irregular or absent ovulation means the endometrium is exposed to estrogen without the balancing effect of progesterone. Without regular progesterone-driven luteal phases, the endometrium undergoes continued estrogen-driven proliferation, leading to endometrial hyperplasia. This proliferative state increases the risk of malignant transformation over time if not managed, making endometrial hyperplasia a recognized risk in PCOS. The other options aren’t directly tied to PCOS as specific risks: ovarian cancer isn’t a well-established risk of PCOS, and hyperthyroidism or osteoporosis aren’t characteristic dangers associated with this condition. In practice, management to reduce risk focuses on achieving regular shedding of the endometrium (for example, with cyclic progestins or combined oral contraceptives) and addressing metabolic factors like obesity and insulin resistance.

In PCOS, irregular or absent ovulation means the endometrium is exposed to estrogen without the balancing effect of progesterone. Without regular progesterone-driven luteal phases, the endometrium undergoes continued estrogen-driven proliferation, leading to endometrial hyperplasia. This proliferative state increases the risk of malignant transformation over time if not managed, making endometrial hyperplasia a recognized risk in PCOS. The other options aren’t directly tied to PCOS as specific risks: ovarian cancer isn’t a well-established risk of PCOS, and hyperthyroidism or osteoporosis aren’t characteristic dangers associated with this condition. In practice, management to reduce risk focuses on achieving regular shedding of the endometrium (for example, with cyclic progestins or combined oral contraceptives) and addressing metabolic factors like obesity and insulin resistance.