In polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), ovarian morphology can vary among individuals, and it's important to consider the different phenotypes within PCOS, including hyperandrogenic and non-hyperandrogenic (hypohypo) presentations. Here's how ovarian morphology in hypohypo PCOS patients might compare to typical PCOS patients:
Ovarian Follicles and Cysts:Typical PCOS patients often exhibit multiple small follicles (2-9 mm in diameter) arranged peripherally around the ovarian cortex, giving the ovaries a characteristic "string of pearls" appearance on ultrasound. In hypohypo PCOS patients, the number and distribution of small follicles may be less pronounced compared to typical PCOS patients. The ovaries may still demonstrate some follicular activity, but the appearance of a "string of pearls" may be less prominent or absent.
Ovarian Volume:Ovarian volume is often increased in typical PCOS patients due to the presence of multiple small follicles and stromal hyperplasia. In hypohypo PCOS patients, ovarian volume may be normal or only slightly increased, reflecting the lesser degree of follicular activity and potentially reduced stromal hyperplasia.
Stromal Hyperplasia:Both typical and hypohypo PCOS patients may exhibit ovarian stromal hyperplasia, characterized by increased stromal cellularity and fibrosis. However, the degree of stromal hyperplasia may vary between individuals and may be less pronounced in hypohypo PCOS patients.
Androgenic Features:Typical PCOS patients often present with signs of hyperandrogenism such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth), acne, or alopecia (hair loss). Hypohypo PCOS patients may exhibit fewer or milder signs of hyperandrogenism, or they may have normal androgen levels. Consequently, the presence of androgenic features may vary among individuals within the hypohypo PCOS phenotype.
Menstrual Regularity:Hypohypo PCOS patients may have more regular menstrual cycles compared to typical PCOS patients, who often present with oligomenorrhea (infrequent menstrual periods) or amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods). This difference in menstrual regularity may also be reflected in the ovarian morphology.
It's important to recognize that PCOS is a heterogeneous condition with diverse clinical presentations and phenotypes. Ovarian morphology is just one aspect of the syndrome, and the diagnosis of PCOS typically involves a combination of clinical, biochemical, and imaging criteria. Individual variations in ovarian morphology and other clinical features should be considered when diagnosing and managing PCOS patients, regardless of the specific phenotype.