A 16yearold adolescent female whose BMI is at the 90th percentile reports
irregular periods. The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner notes widespread acne on her face and back and an abnormal distribution of facial hair. The nurse practitioner will evaluate her further based on a suspicion of which diagnosis?

Question

A 16­year­old adolescent female whose BMI is at the 90th percentile reports
irregular periods. The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner notes widespread acne on her face and back and an abnormal distribution of facial hair. The nurse practitioner will evaluate her further based on a suspicion of which diagnosis?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The adolescent's symptoms, including irregular periods, widespread acne, abnormal distribution of facial hair, and high BMI, are suggestive of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Dyslipidemia and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis are possible complications of PCOS, but they are not the most likely explanation for the adolescent's symptoms. Hypothyroidism may also cause irregular periods, but it is not typically associated with acne and abnormal hair growth.

A 16­year­old Adolescent Female Whose BMI Is at the 90th

A 16yearold Adolescent Female Whose BMI Is at the 90th