Relation between polycystic ovary syndrome and thyroid status and clinical, biochemical characteristics in AL-Nasiriya city

Objective: To assess the status of thyroid function and thyroid disorders and some important clinical and biochemical parameters in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS ). Setting: This study was carried out in the infertility unit in AL-Hussein teaching hospital in AL-Nasiriya city. Materials and Methods: 50 women with age of 18-35 years met conventional clinical criteria for PCOS. Anthropometric measurement including weight, height, and body mass index (BMI) were assessed. Laboratory investigations like free T3, free T4, TSH, LH and FSH were measured. Transabdominal pelvic ultrasonography was performed. Results: The characteristics of women recruited, showed that 20 patients (40%) with PCOS were in the age group of 18-35 years old. Thyroid disorders was detected in 20 PCOS patients (40%), hypothyroidism was detected in 15 PCOS patients (30%) while hyperthyroidism was detected in 5 patients (10%). The relationship between study variables as assessed by correlation analysis revealed statistical significant among LH/FSH ratio, LH level, BMI and irregular menses with thyroid disorders in PCOS patients and revealed no statistical significant with hirsutism and acne. Conclusion: The study demonstrated high prevalence of thyroid disorders especially hypothyroidism in patients with PCOS. It will be helpful to assess thyroid function routinely in patients with PCOS and offer thyroid hormone replacement therapy if necessary.