Differential Diagnosis for Conditions that Mimic PCOS
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): This condition can present with similar symptoms to PCOS, such as hyperandrogenism, irregular menstrual cycles, and infertility. CAH is a group of inherited disorders that affect the adrenal glands, leading to an overproduction of androgens.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Thyroid dysfunction: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause menstrual irregularities and hyperandrogenism, mimicking PCOS.
- Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated prolactin levels can disrupt menstrual cycles and cause hyperandrogenism, similar to PCOS.
- Cushing's syndrome: This rare endocrine disorder can cause hyperandrogenism, weight gain, and menstrual irregularities, similar to PCOS.
- Androgen-secreting tumors: Ovarian or adrenal tumors that secrete androgens can cause symptoms similar to PCOS.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses:
- Pituitary adenoma: A tumor in the pituitary gland can cause hyperprolactinemia, leading to symptoms similar to PCOS. If left untreated, pituitary adenomas can lead to serious complications.
- Adrenal carcinoma: A rare but aggressive tumor that can cause hyperandrogenism and other symptoms similar to PCOS. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious consequences.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Gonadal dysgenesis: A rare condition where the gonads (ovaries or testes) do not develop properly, leading to hyperandrogenism and menstrual irregularities.
- Steroidogenic enzyme deficiencies: Rare genetic disorders that affect the production of steroid hormones, leading to hyperandrogenism and other symptoms similar to PCOS.
- Idiopathic hyperandrogenism: A rare condition characterized by excessive androgen production without a clear underlying cause, which can mimic PCOS.