A Case-Control Study of the Association of Novel Androgens (11-KT and DHT), Classical Androgens (Testosterone and DHEAS), Hormones (LH, FSH, 17-OHP, Insulin, and SHBG), Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), and Dyslipidemia in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).

Abstract

Background: The measurement of androgens (testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS)) remains standard for the evaluation of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) women. However, other early novel androgen markers, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT), may open a separate path of measurement, which may be more potent. The study was conducted with the objectives to analyze the association of 11-KT and DHT with established markers and with the clinical profile of PCOS patients.

Materials and methods: A case-control study was conducted on 30 newly diagnosed cases of PCOS as per the Rotterdam criteria and 30 age-matched controls. The estimation of testosterone, DHEAS, 11-KT, and DHT was performed by the enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) method. The assessment of biochemical and hormonal parameters was compared and correlated with 11-KT and DHT.

Results: Compared to the controls, cases had significantly higher 11-KT (20.81 ± 3.53 vs. 15.83 ± 2.67 nmol/L, P < 0.0001) and DHT (154.39 vs. 71.02 pg/mL, P < 0.0001). 11-KT showed a significant positive correlation with total testosterone (TT) (r = 0.555) and DHEAS (r = 0.501). DHT also showed a significant positive correlation with TT (r = 0.487) and DHEAS (r = 0.52).

Conclusion: In conclusion, novel androgen derivatives (11-KT and DHT) hold equivalent evidence for the evaluation of women with PCOS as they are raised in women with PCOS as compared to controls. Moreover, they show a good correlation with the standard markers currently used for PCOS.