Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome: A paradigm shift in women's endocrine health: A narrative review of nomenclature, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management

Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), affects one in eight women.The term "PCOS" is misleading-it implies ovarian cysts, obscures endocrine and metabolic features, and contributes to delayed diagnosis, fragmented care, and stigma.In May 2026, a global consensus in The Lancet formally adopted "PMOS," reflecting a 14-year campaign involving 56 international organizations and over 14,000 patients and professionals.(Teede et al., 2026) [1] PCOS/PMOS is the most common endocrinologic disorder in women, yet its pathophysiology remains incompletely understood.(Teede et al., 2023) [2] This review discusses proposed pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, current management strategies, long-term health sequelae, and future research priorities.Chronic anovulation and hyperandrogenism are the most prevalent endocrine abnormalities, commonly affecting women aged 18-44 years.Global prevalence ranges from 4-12%.The condition influences females from conception to death, reducing quality of life and increasing morbidity.Treatment may be surgical (laparoscopic ovarian drilling) or medical (aromatase inhibitors, metformin, clomiphene citrate, gonadotropins).(Azziz et al., 2016) [3]