What is a common presentation of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in adolescents?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is commonly characterized by a combination of menstrual irregularities and signs of hyperandrogenism in adolescents. Menstrual irregularities may manifest as oligomenorrhea (infrequent menstrual periods) or amenorrhea (absence of periods), reflecting the hormone imbalances often seen in PCOS. Hyperandrogenism may present as hirsutism (excess body hair), acne, or alopecia (thinning hair), which arise from elevated androgen levels.

In adolescents, the symptoms can frequently be quite pronounced, impacting both physical health and psychological well-being. Recognizing these signs early can facilitate timely diagnosis and management of PCOS, which is crucial for preventing long-term complications such as insulin resistance and infertility. Thus, this combination of menstrual irregularities coupled with signs of hyperandrogenism represents a classic presentation of PCOS in this age group.