The relationship between epicardial fat thickness and insulin resistance in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome is characterized by ovulatory dysfunction and hyperandrogenism. Although insulin resistance is not a diagnostic criterion for polycystic ovary syndrome, it has an important role in the development of the clinical presentation in a majority of patients with this syndrome. Many studies have examined the relationship of epicardial fat thickness with insulin resistance and cardiovascular complications. This study aimed to determine the relationship of epicardial fat thickness with polycystic ovary syndrome and insulin resistance.

Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited women with polycystic ovary syndrome presenting to endocrinology clinic in Kermanshah city. Sixty-four patients with polycystic ovary syndrome, without underlying diseases, were divided into two groups of 32 according to the HOMA-IR index as insulin resistant and insulin sensitive. Their epicardial fat thickness was measured by transtorasic echocardiography.

Results: The results of this study suggest that epicardial fat thickness has a direct and significant relationship with insulin resistance and BMI in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Conclusion: According to the results, the increase in the thickness of epicardial fat is independent of the disease in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. The cause of the increased thickness is the metabolic syndrome and increased insulin resistance in these patients.