POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME
The ovaries are bilaterally enlarged with multiple peripheral cysts (20–100 in
each ovary). This is due to high circulating androgens and high circulating
insulin levels causing arrest of follicular development in various stages. This,
along with stromal hyperplasia and a thickened ovarian capsule, results in
enlarged ovaries bilaterally. PCOS is associated with valproic acid use.
Management is conservative regarding ovaries.
For further discussion of PCOS pathophysiology and treatment, refer to Chapter
12, Hormonal Disorders.