Global perspective on the diagnosis and treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: A narrative review of different clinical guidelines

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran

2 1. Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran

3 Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran

4 Department of Reproductive Imaging, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.

5 Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran

6 Department of Photo Healing and Regeneration, Medical Laser Research Center, Yara Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran

7 6. Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran

10.22038/ijogi.2025.85489.6336

Abstract

Background and Aim: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women, with variations in its diagnosis and management across different countries and populations. This study aims to conduct a narrative review of key clinical guidelines issued by reputable scientific societies, including those from the United States, Europe, Australia, and China. Methods: In this review study, a systematic search was performed across PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus databases, and the Google Scholar search engine. Following resource evaluation, several authoritative clinical guidelines were selected for final analysis. The quality of these guidelines was assessed using validated tools, and data were analyzed descriptively. Findings: While many recommendations showed consensus, significant variations were observed in diagnostic thresholds for clinical and biochemical parameters, as well as in first-line treatment approaches. These differences primarily stem from demographic characteristics, cultural factors, and healthcare system structures in each country. Conclusion: Given the identified disparities among international guidelines, this study highlights the necessity of developing localized guidelines tailored to the needs of the Iranian population. Establishing specialized task forces that incorporate international guidelines while considering local conditions could enhance patient care quality - particularly for adolescents - and prevent long-term PCOS-related complications. Regular updates and continuous education programs also play a pivotal role in improving the effectiveness of therapeutic services.

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