TLDR Women with mild acne are more likely to have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) than those without acne.
The study, which included 52 women with mild acne and 59 controls, found a 17.1% overall prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) among participants, with a significantly higher rate in the acne group (26.9%) compared to the control group (8.4%). Women with acne had larger ovarian volumes and thicker ovarian stroma, as well as higher serum total testosterone levels, although other hormone levels did not differ significantly between the groups. The findings suggest that acne and hirsutism may be indicators of PCOS, a condition linked to serious health risks, and highlight the importance of screening for PCOS in women with these symptoms to prevent long-term health complications.
33 citations,
September 2008 in “Dermatologic therapy” Doctors should know how to diagnose and treat PCOS, which often involves checking for high male hormone levels and using medications to manage symptoms.
989 citations,
August 2007 in “The Lancet” PCOS is a complex condition with major health impacts, needing more research for better diagnosis and treatment.
54 citations,
June 2006 in “Baillière's best practice and research in clinical endocrinology and metabolism/Baillière's best practice & research. Clinical endocrinology & metabolism” Medicines that lower androgen levels and hair removal treatments help manage excessive hair and acne in women with PCOS.
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.
17 citations,
September 2017 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Women with PCOS in North China often have hirsutism and acne, with hirsutism linked to metabolic issues.
1 citations,
August 2013 in “Springer eBooks” Birth control pills and anti-androgen medications help manage hair growth, acne, and hair loss in women with PCOS.
10 citations,
November 2010 in “Skin therapy letter” Women with PCOS often have acne because of high androgen levels, and the article reviewed how to treat this type of acne.
20 citations,
June 2010 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Women with mild acne are more likely to have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) than those without acne.
