Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder, and various laboratory tests are often used to aid in its diagnosis and management. The tests typically focus on evaluating hormone levels, insulin resistance, and other factors that may be associated with PCOS.
Common laboratory tests for PCOS include:
- Serum, Saliva, or Urinary Hormone Tests
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- Testosterone Levels: Elevated levels of testosterone or other androgens are common in PCOS. (Serum, Saliva, Urine)
- Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S): Sometimes elevated in PCOS (Serum, Saliva, Urine)
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): An LH to FSH ratio that is higher than normal is often considered indicative of PCOS. (Serum)
- Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG): This can be low in PCOS, leading to higher levels of free testosterone. (Serum)
- Prolactin: To rule out hyperprolactinemia, which can cause similar symptoms. (Serum)
- Insulin Resistance and Glucose Tolerance Tests
- Fasting Glucose and Insulin Levels: To assess for insulin resistance.
- Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): Provides an average blood sugar level over the past two to three months.
- Glycated Serum Protein: Measures the amount of glucose that has chemically attached to proteins in the blood over the previous 2-3 weeks, providing an average blood glucose control during that time.
- Adiponectin: Women with PCOS generally have lower levels of adiponectin. This reduction in adiponectin contributes to insulin resistance, which is a key feature of PCOS. Insulin resistance in turn can lead to various PCOS symptoms, such as irregular periods, hirsutism, and difficulties with fertility.
- Leptin: Women with PCOS often have higher leptin levels. This increase is usually associated with obesity, a common feature in PCOS. However, there may also be a state of leptin resistance in PCOS, where the body doesn't respond to leptin signals effectively, potentially exacerbating weight gain and metabolic disturbances.
- Lipid Profile
- Assesses levels of cholesterol and triglycerides since women with PCOS are at a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases.
- Other Tests
- Total Toxic Burden: Studies suggest that exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, certain pesticides, heavy metals, mold and mycotoxins, and PFAS may be linked to the development or exacerbation of PCOS. These chemicals can interfere with the normal function of hormones, potentially contributing to the hormonal imbalances seen in PCOS.
- Thyroid Function Tests: To rule out thyroid disorders that can mimic PCOS symptoms.
- Inflammation Panel: PCOS can be associated with a low-grade chronic inflammation.
It's important to note that the diagnosis of PCOS is not solely based on lab tests; it typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, symptom assessment, and ultrasound imaging of the ovaries. The specific tests ordered can vary depending on individual symptoms and the clinical judgment of the healthcare provider.
