Brief Answer:
See below!

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

The diagnosis of PCOS requires a systematic approach. I will however touch on the preliminaries. It starts with a good history and a physical examination to detect signs and symptoms suggestive of PCOS such as hirsutism, abnormal periods etc.

I begin the specific work-up for PCOS by ordering a random serum free testosterone at the initial evaluation for hyperandrogenemia. Also, I generally include prolactin, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), and if the patient is centrally obese, cortisol. This is often completed with a pelvic ultrasound to evaluate the ovaries.

I hope this guides and helps you. I wish you well. Feel free to follow up with me if need be.

Regards,
Dr. Ivo Ditah
Internal Medicine Specialist

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Brief Answer:
No!

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

We must establish that there is a disproportionately high level of androgens before the diagnosis of PCOS can be made. LH, FSH, Prolactin and TSH are meant to exclude other causes of menstrual abnormalities but are not needed to confirm PCOS. In other words, they are used to exclude other causes.

Hope this helps.

Regards,
Dr. Ivo Ditah
Internal Medicine Specialist

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