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Endocrinologist to discuss diagnosis, management of PCOS :

June 27, 2019

Editor's note:The 2019 AAP National Conference & Exhibition will take place from Oct. 25-29 in New Orleans.

Selma F. Witchel, M.D., FAAP, will present “Timely Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome” from 8:30-9:15 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26 (F2042) and from 8:30-9:15 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 27 (F3044) in rooms 353-355 of the convention center. 

Dr. Witchel is a member of the AAP Section on Endocrinology and director of pediatric endocrinology, fellowship training program at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and professor of pediatrics at University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. She is involved in the care of many pediatric patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

In the following Q&A, Dr. Witchel summarizes what she plans to discuss during the session and why pediatricians should attend.

Q: How prevalent is polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescents?

A: PCOS affects approximately 10% of reproductive-aged women (that includes adolescent girls).

Q: What are the key things you will be covering during the session?

A: I will focus mostly on diagnosis and management. I will include some information on pathophysiology and genetics.

Q: Why do you think this is an important topic for pediatricians to learn more about?

A: Pediatricians need to learn how to identify girls considered to be “at risk” for PCOS, accurately diagnose PCOS and initiate appropriate interventions.

Q: What is the take-home message of the session?

A: Early healthy lifestyle intervention is crucial.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

A: Obesity, insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia are commonly identified in adolescent girls with PCOS. These features should not be used to diagnose PCOS.

For more coverage of the 2019 AAP National Conference & Exhibition, visit http://bit.ly/AAPNationalConference19.

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