TLDR Most women with PCOS have high levels of male hormones, and free testosterone is the best marker for this.
The study investigated the prevalence of hyperandrogenemia in 720 patients with PCOS, finding that 75.3% of them had elevated androgen levels. Free testosterone (T) was the most commonly elevated androgen, with 57.6% of patients above the normal range, followed by total T and DHEAS at 33.0% and 32.7%, respectively. The study concluded that free T is the most predictive marker for hyperandrogenemia in PCOS, suggesting it as the preferred single test for this condition.
59 citations,
December 2007 in “Clinical Endocrinology” The current methods for diagnosing polycystic ovary syndrome are too vague and may lead to misdiagnosis and problems in research.
1744 citations,
November 2006 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Polycystic Ovary Syndrome should be seen mainly as a condition of excess male hormones, with a focus on this in its definition.
947 citations,
February 2004 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Most women with excess male hormones have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, and hormonal therapy can improve symptoms but may cause side effects.
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.
4025 citations,
January 2004 in “Human Reproduction” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and linked PCOS to higher risks of diabetes and heart problems, recommending lifestyle changes to lower these risks.
66 citations,
November 2001 in “European journal of endocrinology” Low SHBG and high FAI, FT, and DHEAS levels are effective in identifying PCOS.
