TLDR Insulin resistance contributes to hormone imbalances in many women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
The document from 2001 discusses polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is largely synonymous with chronic unexplained hyperandrogenemia, a condition responsible for about 95% of hyperandrogenism in women. PCOS is characterized by a variety of classic and nonclassic forms, potentially with different genetic causes. The condition's hyperandrogenism is thought to stem from a dysregulation of steroidogenesis due to an imbalance of factors that modulate trophic hormone action. Hyperinsulinemia, caused by insulin resistance, is a significant contributing factor in many PCOS cases, leading to hyperandrogenemia in those with a genetic predisposition by revealing latent steroidogenesis regulation issues. Interestingly, a gene associated with PCOS may manifest as pattern baldness in males. Insulin, along with androgens, also influences the development of pilosebaceous units. The use of antidiabetic insulin-lowering medications may improve ovarian function and androgen levels in PCOS patients, but it is unclear if these treatments will affect pilosebaceous unit symptoms.
60 citations,
June 1997 in “Baillière's clinical obstetrics and gynaecology” PCOS is often caused by hormonal imbalances that can lead to various health issues and may indicate a risk for future metabolic and cardiovascular problems.
23 citations,
June 1997 in “Baillière's clinical obstetrics and gynaecology” Most women with too much androgens have PCOS, which can be managed with birth control pills, medication for hair growth, and fertility treatments, and losing weight helps too.
173 citations,
July 1995 in “Biochemical and biophysical research communications” Male hormones promote hair cell growth by using a growth factor from nearby skin cells.
75 citations,
May 1986 in “Clinics in endocrinology and metabolism” Male hormones are important for hair and oil gland development and can cause conditions like excessive hair growth and acne.
1 citations,
January 2023 in “BMC Women's Health” Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) was found in 3.86% of tenth-grade girls in Guangzhou, China, with higher rates in overweight and obese girls, suggesting diagnosis should focus on hyperandrogenemia.
29 citations,
February 2018 in “Genetics research international” Certain genetic variations are linked to increased androgen levels in PCOS, but more research is needed to understand these connections fully.
467 citations,
October 2014 in “European Journal of Endocrinology” The European Society of Endocrinology advises individualized long-term management for PCOS, focusing on lifestyle changes, accurate diagnosis, and treatments for associated health risks and symptoms.
14 citations,
January 2018 in “Advances in Clinical Chemistry” The document concludes that hormonal biomarkers are key for diagnosing hyperandrogenemia in women and hypogonadism in men.
60 citations,
May 2011 in “Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America” Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is linked to higher risk of hypertension and heart disease.
258 citations,
July 2016 in “Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology” The document concludes that insulin resistance is key in PCOS development and early treatment is crucial to prevent complications.
