Which ultrasound finding supports the diagnosis of PCOS?

Prepare for the NAPLEX Contraception and Infertility Test. Engage with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions, each equipped with hints and explanations. Ensure your readiness for the exam!

Multiple Choice

Which ultrasound finding supports the diagnosis of PCOS?

Explanation:
Polycystic-appearing ovaries on ultrasound are the finding that supports PCOS. This appearance reflects numerous small, developing follicles arranged around the periphery of the ovary, giving a “string of pearls” pattern and often an increased ovarian volume. In practice, ultrasound criteria note multiple small follicles (often 12 or more) or an enlarged ovary as supportive evidence, especially when paired with the clinical features of oligo/anovulation and hyperandrogenism. The other options don’t fit PCOS as characteristic features. A large ovarian cyst (>5 cm) is more typical of a solitary functional cyst or another pathology, not the diffuse polycystic pattern seen in PCOS. Normal ovaries with no cysts would not support PCOS, and endometrial thickening without cysts is not a defining ultrasound hallmark of PCOS, even though endometrium can be thickened with prolonged estrogen exposure in this condition.

Polycystic-appearing ovaries on ultrasound are the finding that supports PCOS. This appearance reflects numerous small, developing follicles arranged around the periphery of the ovary, giving a “string of pearls” pattern and often an increased ovarian volume. In practice, ultrasound criteria note multiple small follicles (often 12 or more) or an enlarged ovary as supportive evidence, especially when paired with the clinical features of oligo/anovulation and hyperandrogenism.

The other options don’t fit PCOS as characteristic features. A large ovarian cyst (>5 cm) is more typical of a solitary functional cyst or another pathology, not the diffuse polycystic pattern seen in PCOS. Normal ovaries with no cysts would not support PCOS, and endometrial thickening without cysts is not a defining ultrasound hallmark of PCOS, even though endometrium can be thickened with prolonged estrogen exposure in this condition.

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