PREVALENCE OF THYROID DYSFUNCTION AND AUTOIMMUNITY IN WOMEN WITH POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME
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Keywords
PCOS, thyroid dysfunction, autoimmune thyroiditis, subclinical hypothyroidism
Abstract
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder characterized by ovulatory dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology. Recent studies suggest an increased prevalence of thyroid dysfunction and autoimmunity among women with PCOS, potentially compounding metabolic and reproductive complications. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction and autoimmune thyroiditis in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Infertility), Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July 2009 to June 2010. A total of 550 women diagnosed with PCOS based on the Rotterdam criteria were enrolled. Clinical evaluation, laboratory investigations including thyroid function tests (TSH, FT4), anti-thyroid antibodies (anti-TPO, anti-TG), and metabolic assessments were performed. Data were analyzed using SPSS v25.0, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: Thyroid dysfunction was present in 17.27% of participants, with subclinical hypothyroidism accounting for 15.64%. Autoimmune thyroiditis, defined by at least one positive antibody marker, was detected in 26.36%. Women with subclinical hypothyroidism had significantly higher HOMA-IR, fasting insulin, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, and lower HDL cholesterol compared to euthyroid counterparts (p < 0.01 for all). Fasting glucose levels were not significantly different.
Conclusion: Thyroid dysfunction and autoimmunity are prevalent in PCOS and are associated with adverse metabolic profiles. Routine thyroid evaluation in PCOS patients may aid in early identification and management of comorbidities.
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Humaira Alam
Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Sayeba Akhter
Former Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Kazi Farhana Begum
Medical Officer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh