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World J Diabetes. Mar 15, 2011; 2(3): 33-40
Published online Mar 15, 2011. doi: 10.4239/wjd.v2.i3.33
Published online Mar 15, 2011. doi: 10.4239/wjd.v2.i3.33
Assessing and treating insulin resistance in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome
Michael L Traub, Island Reproductive Services, Staten Island, NY 10314, United States
Michael L Traub, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island, NY 10305, United States
Author contributions: Traub ML contributed solely to this paper.
Correspondence to: Michael L Traub, MD, Island Reproductive Services, 1110 South Avenue Suite 305, Staten Island, NY 10314, United States. traubml@yahoo.com
Telephone: +11-718-7616000 Fax: +11-718-7616066
Received: October 15, 2010
Revised: December 10, 2010
Accepted: December 17, 2010
Published online: March 15, 2011
Revised: December 10, 2010
Accepted: December 17, 2010
Published online: March 15, 2011
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a highly prevalent hormonal and metabolic disorder among reproductive aged women worldwide. Women with PCOS have widely varying phenotypes and seek medical care for differing reasons. In addition to concern for menstrual cycle function, ovulation, hirsutism and acne, many PCOS women have abnormal glucose metabolism. While diabetes mellitus and impaired glucose tolerance are easily diagnosed, the diagnosis of and concern for insulin resistance as a precursor disorder is underappreciated. Insulin resistance may be the first important marker of metabolic disease in PCOS women at risk for metabolic syndrome and coronary artery disease.
Keywords: Polycystic ovarian syndrome, Insulin resistance, Impaired glucose tolerance, Diabetes mellitus, Infertility