Polycystic ovary syndrome and insulin-resistant hyperinsulinemia

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.