Rotterdam PCOS Criteria
Rotterdam 2003 diagnostic criteria for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Requires 2 of 3 criteria after exclusion of other aetiologies.
Score interpretation
Fewer than 2 of the 3 Rotterdam criteria.
→ PCOS not diagnosed; investigate other causes of the symptoms. Adolescents with features but not meeting criteria: reassess by 8 years after menarche.
2 or more Rotterdam criteria, but other causes have not yet been excluded.
→ Exclude thyroid disease, hyperprolactinaemia, non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (17-OHP), Cushing's syndrome and androgen-secreting tumours before diagnosing PCOS.
2 or more Rotterdam criteria after exclusion of other causes.
→ Assess metabolic risk (weight, BP, glucose/HbA1c, lipids) and mental health; lifestyle, combined oral contraceptive pill, metformin and fertility input as indicated (2023 international guideline).
Interpretation bands for the PCOS Rotterdam. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Rotterdam ESHRE/ASRM-Sponsored PCOS consensus workshop group. Revised 2003 consensus on diagnostic criteria and long-term health risks related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Hum Reprod. 2004;19(1):41-47.
- Teede HJ et al. Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Hum Reprod 2023;38:1655-1679.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) · JBDS 2013 / Joint British Diabetes Societies; NICE NG17
- Adult Hypoglycaemia (Treated Diabetes) · JBDS-IP (2023): Hospital Management of Hypoglycaemia
- Adrenal Crisis · Society for Endocrinology Emergency Guidance (2024)
- Type 2 Diabetes Management · NICE NG28 2022
- Hyperthyroidism Management · BTA / ETA 2018
- Adrenal Insufficiency · Society of Endocrinology / ESE 2016
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.
