Clinical and biochemical profile in adolescent and adult polycystic ovary syndrome patients

Abstract

Objective: To compare the clinical and biochemical profiles of adolescent and adult patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and to evaluate the impact of insulin resistance on metabolic parameters.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital from June to December 2024. A total of 150 PCOS patients, diagnosed using the Rotterdam criteria, were included. Clinical features (BMI, menstrual irregularities, hirsutism and family history) and biochemical parameters (fasting glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, lipid profile and hormone levels) were analyzed. Patients were stratified into insulin-resistant and non-insulin-resistant groups for comparison. Insulin resistance was defined using HOMA-IR cut off value of more than 2.5.

Results: Adolescents had lower BMI (25.5 ± 3.8 vs. 29.1 ± 4.9 kg/m², p < 0.001) and more frequent menstrual irregularities (90.7% vs. 49.3%, p < 0.001) than adults. Insulin resistance was observed in 85 (56.7%) patients and was associated with significantly higher fasting insulin (18.2 ± 4.8 vs. 9.8 ± 2.9 µU/mL, p < 0.001), HOMA-IR (4.8 ± 1.2 vs. 2.3 ± 0.6, p < 0.001) and higher LDL with lower HDL levels.

Conclusions: Significant age-related differences in clinical and biochemical profiles exist among PCOS patients, along with insulin resistance status. Early identification of metabolic risks is crucial for timely intervention.