The obstetrician-gynecologist's role in the practical management of polycystic ovary syndrome

Nutrition and acne: therapeutic potential of ketogenic diets

The influence of nutrition on skin health is a growing research area but the findings of various studies on the effect of diet on the development of acne have often been contradictory. The general opinion among researchers has oscillated between two different, opposing positions: that diet either is or is not a key factor for acne development. This review examines the evidence supporting an influence of various dietary components on the development of acne particularly focusing on the role played by carbohydrates. The physiological and biochemical effects of the ketogenic diet are examined from this perspective and mechanisms will be proposed via which this type of diet could have a role in the treatment of acne.

Weight Loss and Medication in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Therapy

Polycystic ovary syndrome, which is a complex syndrome, affects approximately 6% of reproductive-age women. Many abnormalities are associated with polycystic ovary syndrome, but confusion still exists about their causation. Diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome is by exclusion. Management of the metabolic aspects of polycystic ovary syndrome focuses on minimizing insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia with diet therapy or insulin-lowering drugs.

Laparoscopic ovarian drilling in clomiphene citrate-resistant women with polycystic ovary syndrome

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To analyze the efficacy of laparoscopic ovarian drilling using monopolar diathermy in women with anovulatory infertility with clomiphene-resistant polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and to determine factors influencing pregnancy rate and pregnancy outcomes.

DESIGN

Prospective study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2).

SETTING

Infertility clinic in a tertiary referral teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

Seventy women with clomiphene-resistant PCOS.

INTERVENTION

Laparoscopic ovarian drilling, with follow-up for 4.5 years.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Follow-up data, which were available for 66 patients, showed a spontaneous ovulation rate of 81.8%, cumulative ovulation rate of 93.9%, and pregnancy rate of 54.5%. Successful pregnancies were commonly complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus and pregnancy-induced hypertension. Pregnancy rates (23.5%) were low in women with tuboperitoneal disease and those whose partners had subfertile male factors. Statistical evaluation using a proportion test (Z test) and multivariable logistical regression analysis showed that elevated luteinizing hormone levels (>10 IU/L), short duration of infertility (<3 yrs), and absence of preexisting tubal disease were associated with better outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is an effective surgical procedure in women with clomiphene-resistant PCOS.

Clinical management of PCOS

The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous condition with genetic predisposition. It is characterized by a myriad of symptoms including oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea, anovulation or infertility, hirsutism or acne. Insulin resistance appears to be an important factor in PCOS though the lack of an etiology has led to symptom oriented therapy which includes lifestyle modification, the use of cyclical progestagens and antiandrogens. Ovulation induction by drug therapy and ovarian drilling aims to treat subfertility in women with PCOS. Therapeutic approaches to PCOS remain an ongoing source of debate. Insulin sensitizing agents may bring new hope in therapy. Future research is aimed at shedding light on the pathophysiology so as to optimize treatment of women with PCOS.

Polycystic ovary syndrome: implications for the advanced practice nurse in primary care

PURPOSE

To discuss the diagnosis and management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by the advanced practice nurse in primary care.

DATA SOURCES

Selected research and clinical articles.

CONCLUSIONS

The disorder is an endocrinopathy characterized by chronic anovulation, resulting in multiple ovarian cysts. Recent research suggests a genetic etiology and a close association with obesity. Patients often present with hyperandrogenism, irregular menses, and infertility. Management is directed at the alleviation of individual symptoms.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

If left untreated, cardiovascular disease, abnormal insulin metabolism, and ovarian and endometrial cancers may develop.