Association of Insulin Resistance with Hyperandrogenism in Women
January 2000
in “
Hormone research in paediatrics
”
insulin resistance hyperandrogenia Polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS hirsutism acne alopecia elevated testosterone polycystic ovaries atherogenic lipid profile glucose intolerance high fasting insulin type 2 diabetes cardiovascular disease insulin receptors acanthosis nigricans insulin resistance high testosterone PCOS hair loss high cholesterol high blood sugar type 2 diabetes heart disease skin darkening
TLDR Insulin resistance is linked to high male hormone levels in women, often seen in those with PCOS.
The document from 2000 discusses the link between insulin resistance and hyperandrogenia in women, particularly those with Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is characterized by symptoms such as hirsutism, acne, alopecia, irregular menstrual cycles, elevated testosterone levels, and the presence of polycystic ovaries. Many women with PCOS also exhibit metabolic issues like an atherogenic lipid profile, glucose intolerance, and high fasting insulin levels, indicative of insulin resistance. This condition is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The skin, which has insulin receptors, can show signs of insulin resistance, such as acanthosis nigricans, which may also occur in PCOS due to severe insulin resistance. The document reviews the interplay between hyperandrogenia and insulin resistance, covering aspects such as insulin secretion and sensitivity in PCOS, the molecular mechanisms of insulin resistance, the paradoxical relationship between insulin resistance and hyperandrogenia, genetic studies, and potential long-term treatments for PCOS.
