Insulin Resistance in an Underweight Woman with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Case Study
December 2024
in “
American Journal of Case Reports
”
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Studysummary This case report highlights that insulin resistance in PCOS can occur even in underweight patients, as demonstrated by a 24-year-old woman who improved her menstrual cycle, acne, and hirsutism with metformin and dexamethasone over 6 months.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
This case study discusses a 24-year-old underweight woman with a BMI of 15.9 kg/m² who was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and insulin resistance. Despite her underweight status, she exhibited hyperandrogenic signs such as hirsutism and acne, along with irregular menstrual cycles. Hormonal tests confirmed elevated levels of testosterone, androstenedione, and 17-OH progesterone, while other conditions like Cushing’s syndrome and thyroid disorders were ruled out. The primary treatment focused on insulin resistance using metformin and dexamethasone, leading to significant improvements in her symptoms after 6 months. The study emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach in diagnosing and managing PCOS in patients who are not overweight.
