Polycystic
Ovarian Sonogram
Polycystic ovaries (PCO) occur when there is a buildup of
small cystic follicles
of 2 to 9 mm
(less than 1/2 inch each) when the ovary does not ovulate.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the association of PCO with signs or lab
suggesting male hormones and abnormal periods. This is commonly associated
with infertility,
hair growth, abnormal hormones and missed periods. 20% of healthy women
with normal hormones have PCO but not PCOS.
A sonogram can determine if the ovaries are PCO but not if
PCOS is present. PCOS requires history or laboratory evaluation. The
sonogram has a compact enlarged central stroma surrounded by multiple ( 12 or
more) small cysts,
of 2 to 9 mm in size.
PCO appearance is contrasted with multicystic ovaries . The cystic areas in
this sonogram are 1 to 2 cm in size and were associated with clomiphene hyperstimulation. The central stromal
area in normal size.
A normal ovary also has small cystic areas called follicles that vary from
less than 4 mm up to 8 mm early in the cycle. This increase as ovulation
approaches and can be up to 30 mm with normal ovulation.
Additional information is available from the
Polycystic Ovarian
Syndrome Association.
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