Insulin Resistance in Non-Obese Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Subjects and Relation with Family History of Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Purpose: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women in reproductive age. Conflicting results are reported in the studies examining insulin resistance in lean PCOS subjects. We aimed to observe the controversial presence of insulin resistance in lean PCOS subjects with the gold standard method and assess the impacts of family history of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on insulin resistance in these patients.

Material and Method: Nineteen patients with PCOS and nine age-BMI matched control subjects were recruited into the study. Patients with PCOS were divided into two groups according to their FH of T2DM among their first degree relatives (FHneg vs FHpos). Insulin resistance was evaluated with homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp technique for all participants.

Results: Mean M values were significantly higher in the control group when compared with PCOS patients (p=0.003). There was no statistically significant difference for HOMA-IR and M values when FHneg and FHpos patients were compared. Although HOMA-IR values were similar between all groups, M values were lower in FHneg and FHpos groups compared to the controls (p=0.02 and 0.004 respectively).

Discussion: Lean PCOS patients have evident insulin resistance when compared to healthy subjects, and FH of T2DM seems to not affect insulin resistance. Even non-obese PCOS patients should be encouraged for healthy eating style and exercise to prevent the potential risks associated with insulin resistance. Furthermore these patients can see benefits from medical therapies which improve insulin sensitivity.