TLDR Normal-range ALT levels can indicate metabolic and hormonal imbalances in young women.
In the 2010 study involving 200 women aged 18-48, including those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and idiopathic hyperandrogenism, it was found that variations in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels within the normal range are linked to metabolic and androgenic phenotypes. ALT levels correlated positively with various metabolic and androgenic markers and inversely with factors indicating insulin sensitivity. These correlations were not dependent on obesity. An ALT level of ≥ 18 IU/L was significantly associated with PCOS. The study concluded that normal-range ALT levels could indicate metabolic and androgenic abnormalities in women of reproductive age and suggested that ALT could be used beyond liver disease diagnosis to identify women at risk for conditions like PCOS and insulin resistance.
4025 citations,
December 2003 in “Human Reproduction” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and linked PCOS to higher risks of diabetes and heart problems, recommending lifestyle changes to lower these risks.
1947 citations,
September 1995 in “New England journal of medicine/The New England journal of medicine” PCOS is a common hormonal disorder causing irregular periods and increased hair growth, linked to insulin resistance and long-term health issues.
25 citations,
December 2017 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” Birth control pills combined with bicalutamide are more effective at reducing excessive hair growth in women with PCOS than birth control pills alone.
356 citations,
September 2014 in “Journal of Clinical Research in Pediatric Endocrinology” Childhood obesity is rising globally due to various factors, and early prevention and healthy lifestyle changes are crucial.
23 citations,
February 2014 in “Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology” Low-dose finasteride reduces excessive hair growth in teenage girls safely and affordably.
21 citations,
December 2007 in “Primary Care” Early diagnosis and treatment of PCOS is crucial to reduce emotional distress and health risks.
7 citations,
August 2023 in “EClinicalMedicine” Anti-androgens can help manage some PCOS symptoms better than metformin but are not more effective than placebos or birth control pills for other symptoms.
