Abstract

The etiology of Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) remains unknown and it is believed that there may be several different pathways leading to the syndrome PCOS is associated with peripheral insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia, and the degree of both abnormalities is amplified by the presence of obesity. Studies of insulin-mediated glucose disposal have shown that women with PCOS have peripheral insulin resistance similar in magnitude to that seen in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Aim: To evaluate for insulin resistance in PCOS patients in obese and non obese patients. Materials and methods: The present study includes 80 women clinically diagnosed with PCOS within the age group of 18-40 years. Results: This study shows that most of the women with PCOS have heritable form of insulin resistance, and prevalence of insulin resistance is twofold higher in obese compared to non-obese PCOS. Conclusion: Presence of obesity adds to insulin resistance. Hence women diagnosed have PCOS should be evaluated for insulin resistance specifically if they are obese

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