The Immune System Response in COVID-19 Infection in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The document discusses the potential increased risk of severe COVID-19 infection in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition affecting 8-13% of women of reproductive age. The study suggests that women with PCOS, due to hyperandrogenism, may have a 51% higher risk of COVID-19 compared to women without PCOS. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) shows higher activation in hyperandrogenic women with PCOS, potentially leading to a hyperinflammatory condition that could increase susceptibility to infection. Additionally, 67-85% of women with PCOS have a vitamin D deficiency, which could impair the immune response and increase the risk of systemic infections, including COVID-19. The document recommends that clinicians evaluate the COVID-19 risk profile of women with PCOS and provide practical recommendations for treatment changes and self-isolation.