TLDR Higher androstenedione levels in women with PCOS are linked to more severe symptoms.
The study with 1276 women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) according to the Rotterdam criteria found that elevated serum androstenedione (A4) levels greater than 3.8 ng/ml were associated with a more severe PCOS phenotype. Women with higher A4 levels had increased levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), LH/FSH ratio, testosterone (T), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), 17 OH progesterone, and free androgen index (FAI), and a lower T/A4 ratio. This was true for the entire PCOS group as well as for those with clinical and/or biochemical hyperandrogenemia (phenotypes I and II). Increased ovarian volume was observed across the entire PCOS group with elevated A4 levels, while a greater mean follicular number was specific to phenotypes I and II. The study concluded that serum A4 levels could be a valuable marker for assessing the severity of PCOS.
15 citations,
October 2011 in “Gynecological Endocrinology” Obesity changes androgen levels in women with PCOS, leading to higher testosterone relative to androstenedione.
1540 citations,
October 2008 in “Fertility and Sterility” The report concludes that PCOS is mainly a condition of excess male hormones and its definition may change as new information is discovered.
42 citations,
September 2007 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” The research found that polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has two distinct types, with one having more severe hormone and insulin issues.
947 citations,
February 2004 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Most women with excess male hormones have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, and hormonal therapy can improve symptoms but may cause side effects.
1 citations,
August 2023 in “Curēus” Metformin helps reduce PCOS-related infertility by improving insulin sensitivity and inducing ovulation.
July 2022 in “International journal of medical science and clinical invention” Women with irregular periods should be checked for PCOS and treated early to prevent complications, with birth control pills helping to manage symptoms.
November 2004 in “John Wiley & Sons, Ltd eBooks” Insulin resistance is linked to PCOS and can lead to other health issues, but treatments like metformin can help manage symptoms.
10 citations,
January 2014 in “Endocrinology & metabolic syndrome” PCOS is a long-term condition that needs more research for better understanding and treatment.
52 citations,
June 2013 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” The research found that anovulatory young women have higher androgen and hormone levels than those who ovulate, suggesting immature hormonal regulation rather than a specific condition.
