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Estradiol/testosterone and estradiol/androstenedione indexes and nutritional status in PCOS women - A pilot study

Franik G, Maksym M, Owczarek AJ, Chudek J, Madej P, Olszanecka-Glinianowicz M

European journal of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive biology, 2019

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to analyze interrelations between estradiol/testosterone (E2/T) and estradiol/androstenedione (E2/A) indexes and nutritional status, insulin resistance in PCOS.

STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional study involved 76 PCOS (41 obese) and 67 Non-PCOS (40 obese) women. Anthropometric parameters and body composition were assessed. In fasting state of serum glucose, androgens, estradiol, FSH, LH, SHBG and insulin were measured. E2/T and E2/A indexes and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were calculated.

RESULTS: The values of E2/T and E2/A indexes were significantly lower in the PCOS than Non-PCOS subjects, but did not differ significantly between the obese and normal weight groups. The lowest E2/T and E2/A values were observed in the normal weight PCOS group. Multivariable regression analyses revealed that the presence of PCOS was the major factor affecting both the log10 E2/T (β = -0.16) and log10 E2/A (β = -0.15) indexes. In addition, log10 E2/A index variability was explained by percentage of body fat (β = 0.57). HOMA-IR was not among the explanatory factors in all above models.

COMMENT: The E2/A index is more affected by nutritional status than E2/T index. The lower value of both indices in PCOS women with normal body mass suggest that aromatase activity in PCOS are related to nutritional status.

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a case-control, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause.

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