Ultrasonographic and Laboratory Markers of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Obese Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

February 2012

Lucimara Facio Nobre Zueff, Wellington P. Martins, Carolina Sales Vieira, Rui Alberto Ferriani

polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS non-alcoholic fatty liver disease NAFLD free androgen index FAI insulin levels insulin sensitivity QUICKI flow-mediated dilation FMD brachial artery insulin

TLDR Obese women with PCOS are more likely to have fatty liver disease.

The study investigated the relationship between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and markers of metabolic and cardiovascular disease risk in 90 obese women, with 45 diagnosed with PCOS and 45 serving as age-matched controls. The results indicated that women with PCOS had a significantly higher prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (73.3% vs. 46.7%, P < 0.01) and a higher free androgen index (FAI) (10.4% vs. 6.8%, P < 0.01). Additionally, there was a trend towards higher insulin levels and lower insulin sensitivity (as measured by QUICKI) and reduced flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery in the PCOS group, although these were not statistically significant. The study concluded that NAFLD is more common in obese women with PCOS, which is an important consideration for their healthcare, including the choice of contraceptives.

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6 / 6 results

research Increased Androgen Bioavailability Is Associated With Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease In Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

119 citations , November 2009 in “Human Reproduction”

Women with PCOS and higher androgen levels are more likely to have fatty liver disease.

research The Evaluation of Endothelial Function with Flow-Mediated Dilatation and Carotid Intima Media Thickness in Young Nonobese Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Patients; Existence of Insulin Resistance Alone May Not Represent an Adequate Condition for Deterioration of Endothelial Function

44 citations , February 2009 in “Fertility and Sterility”

Insulin resistance might not be enough to worsen blood vessel function in young, nonobese women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

research Relative Prevalence of Different Androgen Excess Disorders in 950 Women Referred Because of Clinical Hyperandrogenism

352 citations , January 2006 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism”

Most women referred for excess male hormone symptoms had polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), with other conditions being less common.

research Revised 2003 Consensus on Diagnostic Criteria and Long-Term Health Risks Related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

4809 citations , January 2004 in “Fertility and Sterility”

The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and highlighted increased risks of diabetes and heart disease for those affected.

research Revised 2003 Consensus on Diagnostic Criteria and Long-Term Health Risks Related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

4025 citations , January 2004 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.

research The Pathophysiology of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

249 citations , November 2003 in “Clinical endocrinology”

Insulin resistance is a key factor in polycystic ovary syndrome, but genetics may also contribute.