Here is a clear explanation of this report:
What This Report Shows
This is a pelvic ultrasound done for Reshmi, a 19-year-old woman. The doctor's conclusion (Impression) is:
"Anteverted uterus with both ovaries showing multiple tiny peripheral follicles - Suggestive of Poly Cystic Changes"
This means the ultrasound has found signs suggestive of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).
What Was Found on Ultrasound
| Finding | Detail | Significance |
|---|
| Uterus | 7.2 x 3.0 x 4.6 cm, anteverted | Normal position and size |
| Endometrial thickness | 7.0 mm | Within normal range |
| Right ovary | 4.9 x 2.3 cm | Slightly enlarged |
| Left ovary | 4.2 x 1.8 cm | Borderline size |
| Both ovaries | Multiple tiny peripheral follicles | Key abnormal finding |
| Adnexa & POD | Normal, free of fluid | No other pathology |
The "multiple tiny peripheral follicles" in both ovaries is the hallmark of PCOS on ultrasound. These are small, undeveloped egg sacs (follicles) arranged around the edges of the ovary like a "string of pearls." Normally, one follicle develops and releases an egg each month; in PCOS, this process is disrupted and many small follicles accumulate instead.
What is PCOS?
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is the most common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age, affecting 6-10% of women. It is a syndrome, meaning a collection of problems rather than a single disease.
The Rotterdam criteria (the standard diagnostic guidelines) say PCOS is diagnosed when 2 out of 3 of these features are present:
- Irregular or absent periods (oligo/anovulation)
- Signs of excess male hormones (e.g., acne, excess hair, hair loss)
- Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound ← This report shows this feature
The ultrasound alone is not enough to diagnose PCOS. A doctor needs to check the other two criteria as well, which is why the report says "suggestive of" polycystic changes and notes: "Opinion must be correlated with clinical findings."
What Should Happen Next
The referring doctor (Dr. Seema Sinha) will now evaluate Reshmi for:
- Menstrual history - Are periods irregular, infrequent, or absent?
- Blood tests - LH, FSH, testosterone, insulin, blood sugar, thyroid
- Symptoms - Acne, unwanted facial/body hair, weight gain, hair thinning
If PCOS is confirmed, it is manageable but not curable. Treatment depends on symptoms and may include:
- Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise - especially important if overweight)
- Hormonal medications (e.g., oral contraceptive pills to regulate periods)
- Medications to address insulin resistance (e.g., metformin)
- Fertility treatment if pregnancy is desired in the future
Important: PCOS is very common and very treatable. Finding it at age 19 is actually a good thing - early management can prevent long-term complications like diabetes, heart disease, and endometrial problems. Reshmi should follow up with her doctor promptly. - Berek & Novak's Gynecology