Physicians can now better address a confusing condition after the international medical community pushed to change the label of polycystic ovary syndrome to a new name – polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS).
“The old name was misleading and framed a complex, multisystem condition as a purely gynecological problem,” said Kari Fay, MD, chair of the Texas Medical Association’s Committee on Reproductive, Women’s, and Perinatal Health. “The diagnostic criteria and treatment are not changing – this is about better categorization to ensure patients receive comprehensive, lifelong care that addresses the full scope of this condition, not just its reproductive aspects.”
Considering most affected individuals also have significant other comorbidities, including insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular risks, and sleep apnea; many health problems affiliated with the syndrome often go untreated, Dr. Fay says.
“We encourage all Texas physicians and insurers to begin using the term PMOS and to use this as an opportunity to reassess how thoroughly we are screening for and managing the metabolic and psychological aspects of this highly prevalent disorder,” the New Braunfels obstetrician-gynecologist added.
PMOS affects one in eight women, according to Terri Woodard, MD, director of the oncofertility program at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.
Based on what patients learn about the condition online or from word of mouth, they may arrive at appointments thinking they have cancer or require surgery, Dr. Woodard says.
“They often know the term but don’t truly understand the condition,” she said.
Drs. Fay and Woodard both say the name change alone could help spur broader insurance coverage for multidisciplinary management involving endocrinologists, internists, and cardiologists. This could improve what Dr. Fay describes as fragmented care for PMOS patients.
A more comprehensive approach also supports better long-term outcomes. For example, infertility is a common PMOS complication. There’s also a metabolic component regarding insulin resistance and prediabetes issues that have cardiovascular effects.
“Physicians are going to see patients that have this condition, and its recognition and diagnosis is important because it has real effects on a patient’s long-term health,” said Dr. Woodard, a member of TMA’s Committee on Cancer. “If we can intervene early and get insulin resistance under control, inflammation under control, these women will have much healthier lives when they're older.”