Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical and Pathophysiological Features and Treatment Options
February 2005
in “
Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology
”
polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS insulin resistance acne premature adrenarche acanthosis nigricans hirsutism female pattern hair loss hyperandrogenemia serum androgens oral contraceptives antiandrogens insulin-sensitizing drugs early puberty signs dark skin patches excessive hair growth female hair thinning high androgen levels birth control pills
TLDR Metabolic syndrome can cause serious health issues and should be considered when treating women with severe acne.
In 2005, Anne Lucky, MD, presented a review on metabolic syndrome, also known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), focusing on its clinical and pathophysiological features and treatment options. The syndrome, characterized by insulin resistance, can manifest in preadolescent girls as early acne, premature adrenarche, and acanthosis nigricans, while adolescent and adult patients may present with acne, hirsutism, or female pattern hair loss. Serious health consequences include hyperandrogenemia, infertility, obesity, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and cardiovascular disease. Diagnostic measures include evaluating serum androgens, fasting glucose and insulin levels, and lipid profiles. Treatments target elevated androgen and insulin levels and may include oral contraceptives, antiandrogens, and insulin-sensitizing drugs. Dermatologists were advised to consider metabolic syndrome when treating female patients with early-onset, refractory, or persistent acne.
