Biochemical parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

ABSTRACT

Polycystic ovary syndrome [PCOS] is a common endocrine disorder affecting 5 -10% of women and is the major cause of anovulatory infertility. Prevalence varies among populations based on genetic and environmental factors. Etiology of PCOS remains unknown but Hyperandrogenism and Insulin resistance have both been associated with PCOS. The objective of the present study was to measure plasma levels of Homocysteine and other biochemical parameters in women diagnosed with PCOS attending Gulf Medical College Hospital [GMCH], Ajman. Young women between 18 and 35 years of age, diagnosed with PCOS [N =37], not on any treatment, attending GMCH were included in the study. Biochemical parameters were measured using standard procedures. Laboratory normal reference ranges were used for comparison. 54% of the women with PCOS were overweight or obese according to the BMI and 51% had a waist circumference >88cm. Fasting and postprandial Glucose and Insulin levels and HOMA-IR were within the normal reference ranges indicating that no Insulin resistance was seen in these women. 40% of the women had a serum total Cholesterol level above 200 mg/dL. LDL Cholesterol was above and HDL cholesterol lower than the desirable value. Serum Triacylglycerol was within the normal reference range. Serum Testosterone, Estradiol, Prolactin TSH and plasma Homocysteine were found to be within the normal reference ranges. Homocysteine levels correlated with Testosterone, total Cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. Body mass index was high in 54% of the women. No Insulin resistance was seen in these patients. Hormone levels and Homocysteine were within the normal reference ranges. Dyslipidemia was observed. These findings differ from reports in literature where Insulin resistance, Hyperandrogenism and high Homocysteine levels have been associated with PCOS