Cutaneous Manifestations of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

    December 2025 in “ BENTHAM SCIENCE PUBLISHERS eBooks ”
    Vishal Gaurav
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    TLDR PCOS often causes skin issues like excess hair, acne, hair thinning, and dark patches due to hormone imbalances and insulin resistance.
    In patients with PCOS, dermatological issues such as hirsutism, acne, androgenetic alopecia, and acanthosis nigricans are common and significantly affect well-being. These manifestations are primarily driven by hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation, influenced by genetic and hormonal factors. Hirsutism is linked to androgen excess and increased 5α-reductase activity, while adult acne is exacerbated by androgens and inflammation. Androgenetic alopecia involves complex mechanisms, including Wnt signaling changes and scalp inflammation. Acanthosis nigricans, associated with insulin resistance, underscores metabolic dysfunction, with insulin-like growth factor receptor abnormalities and hyperinsulinemia contributing to its development. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for early detection and management of dermatological symptoms in PCOS.
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