Polycystic ovary syndrome: Panel recommends changing name of
common disorder in women An independent panel convened by the
National Institutes of Health has concluded that the name of a
common hormone disorder in women, polycystic ovary syndrome
(PCOS), causes confusion and is a barrier to research progress
and effective patient care. The current name focuses on a
criterion—ovarian cysts—which is neither necessary nor
sufficient to diagnose the syndrome. In a report released today,
the panel recommended assigning a new name that more accurately
reflects the disorder. "The name PCOS is a distraction that
impedes progress. It is time to assign a name that reflects the
complex interactions that characterize the syndrome. The right
name will enhance recognition of this issue and assist in
expanding research support," said Dr. Robert A. Rizza, panel
member and professor of medicine at the Mayo Clinic in
Rochester, Minn. PCOS is a common disorder that affects
approximately 5 million reproductive-aged women in the U