The association between polycystic ovarian disease and fibrocystic breast disease

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifaceted endocrine disorder that affects approximately 5-10% of women of reproductive age, manifesting in a spectrum of symptoms including hyperandrogenism, menstrual irregularities, and infertility due to chronic anovulation. Notably characterized by insulin resistance and elevated serum luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, PCOS poses an increased risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Aim of the study: to investigate the association between polycystic ovary syndrome and fibrocystic breast disease. Method: Between June 2010 and June 2011, a study at Al-Kadhymia Teaching Hospital examined 100 women, divided into 50 with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and 50 controls, to explore the correlation between PCOS and clinical manifestations like menstrual irregularities and breast pathology. Using the 2003 Rotterdam consensus criteria for diagnosis, the study included detailed clinical assessments, transvaginal ultrasound, and hormone level measurements. Adhering to ethical standards, it aimed to deepen the understanding of PCOS's impact on women's health. Results: In a study involving 100 women divided into PCOS and control groups, significant findings included a higher mean BMI in the PCOS group compared to controls and varied endocrine parameters across PCOS phenotypes. Fibrocystic breast disease was notably more prevalent in the PCOS group, with a statistically significant difference and a relative risk of 4.929, indicating a potential link between PCOS and specific benign breast pathologies. Conclusion:The study revealed a significant correlation between PCOS and fibrocystic breast disease, with non-classic PCOS phenotypes (O + P, H + P, O + H + P) occurring more frequently than the classic phenotype (O + H). Notably, the non-hyperandrogenic phenotype (O + P) presented with the lowest endocrine parameters, suggesting a distinct subtype within PCOS as per the Rotterdam criteria.