Elevated Aspartate Aminotransferase to Platelet Ratio Index Associated With Dyslipidaemia and Obesity in Patients With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Abstract

Problem: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and steatotic liver disease associated with metabolic dysfunction are closely related. The aspartate aminotransferase platelet ratio index (APRI), one of the non-invasive indices, has a high prognostic value in metabolic and cardiovascular abnormalities. The primary outcome of this study was to compare APRI levels in PCOS patients with different metabolic subgroups.

Method of study: The study included women aged 20-45 years with a diagnosis of PCOS. Baseline blood samples were collected after spontaneous menstrual bleeding between days 2 and 5 of the menstrual cycle, following an overnight fast. Patients were classified as obese or non-obese, with or without hypertriglyceridemia, and with normal or abnormal fasting glucose.

Results: A total of 106 patients were included in the study. Triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and APRI scores of lean and overweight patients were significantly lower than those of obese patients. APRI was significantly lower in normotriglyceridemic PCOS patients. The APRI score was positively correlated with triglycerides and negatively correlated with sex-hormone binding globulin.

Conclusions: Current evidence-based international guidelines emphasise that PCOS is not an isolated condition but a systemic endocrine disorder that requires multidisciplinary management. Metabolic abnormalities and indicators of cardiovascular disease risk can be assessed non-invasively in women with PCOS, one of the world's most important health problems. At the same time, patients at risk can be followed more closely and carefully. Given that metabolic risks vary by phenotype and region, personalised assessment and management are essential.