predictive and clinical value of acne valgaris in the diagnosis and follow-up of polycystic ovary syndrome: a controlled study

ABSTRACT

Forty-two females with abnormal menstrual cycle and acne vulgaris and 20 healthy acne free females served as controls were selected for this study. Complete gynecological and dermatological evaluation were done with special investigations including pelvic US and hormonal assay for free and total testosterone hormones [FT and T] and gonadotropin hormones including follicular stimulating hormone [FSH] and luteinizing hormone [LH]. Cases were divided into two subgroups [PCO and normal ovary] according to US findings. This study revealed that US PCO morphology was significantly increased in cases than controls with significant increase in mean ovarian volume, mean level of serum FT hormone and FSH. LH/FSH ratio was significantly increased in cases compared with controls. LH/FSH >2 was present in 27% of cases versus 0% of the controls. Comparing the two subgroups, it was found that there was a significant increase in mean ovarian volume, mean level of serum FT and T hormones, LH and FSH in PCO group than normal ovary group. LH/FSH >2 was present in 32% of PCO group versus 10% of normal ovary group