Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the leading causes of infertility in women, as well as a factor in more general gynaecological issues. It affects 5-10% of women from adolescence and is the most common gynaecological disorder.
It typically presents with unexpected hair growth on the chest, abdomen, and face, combined with an irregular or problematic menstrual cycle. Laboratory tests may reveal hormonal imbalances, with the most common being an overproduction of androgens.
The earlier we detect hormonal changes and consequently diagnose PCOS, the sooner appropriate therapeutic guidelines can be provided by the physician, minimizing its consequences.
The analyses we perform are carefully selected and case-by-case, including:
LH/FSH hormone ratio: in PCOS, it increases from 1:1 to 2:1 or even 3:1, serving as a diagnostic criterion for the condition.
Prolactin (PRL): increased levels may be associated with PCOS.
Free and total testosterone: elevated levels are found in most cases of PCOS.
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA- S): PCOS is associated with a moderate increase in its value, also used to assess possible adrenal hyperfunction.
Oestradiol (E2): levels may be normal or lower than expected, aiding in the evaluation of ovarian function.
Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG): reduced levels may be found in PCOS.
Androstenedione (D-4): measured as an independent androgen, indirectly assessing possible adrenal hyperfunction.
Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β- hCG): measured to check for possible pregnancy, as disrupted cycles and menstrual delays are often symptoms of PCOS.
Lipid profile: it is frequently found disrupted with low HDL, high LDL, and significant changes in total cholesterol and triglycerides.
Fasting glucose, glucose tolerance test: these tests can reveal potential carbohydrate metabolism dysregulation.
Insulin: often found elevated. Regulation is essential as increased insulin levels can lead to glucose intolerance.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): measurement is recommended for early detection of hypothyroidism, which can occur in these cases.
CA 125 (carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA 125) : an indicator of neoplasia/inflammation at the ovarian level, which may also indicate concurrent endometriosis.
Preparation is similar to general check-ups.
For PCOS evaluation, blood should be drawn on the 3rd-5th day of the menstrual cycle (the first day is considered the day menstruation first appears if it's before 8:00 PM, otherwise, the next day is considered the first).