Clinical, Biochemical, and Ultrasonographic Characteristics of Women with Suspected Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in El-Obeid

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the leading endocrine disorder among reproductive-aged women. Despite its prevalence, Sudanese data remain limited. Objectives: To describe the clinical presentation, hormonal abnormalities, and ultrasonographic findings among Sudanese women with suspected PCOS. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study of 120 symptomatic women aged 15–45 years. Consecutive sampling was used. Clinical evaluation, hormonal assays, and pelvic ultrasound were performed using Rotterdam criteria. Results: Menstrual irregularity (58.3%), hirsutism (47.5%), acne (41.7%), and acanthosis nigricans (38.3%) were common. Ultrasound confirmed polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) in 68.3%. Elevated LH/FSH ratio and testosterone were observed in 47.5% and 45% respectively. Significant correlations were found between BMI and hirsutism (r=0.52), LH/FSH ratio and testosterone (r=0.44), and ovarian volume and LH (r=0.48). Conclusion: The clustering of reproductive, hormonal, and ultrasound abnormalities highlights the classical PCOS phenotype. Early integrated diagnostic assessment is essential. Findings are not generalizable due to the hospital-based design [1,2].