The role of polycystic ovary syndrome in preclinical left ventricular diastolic dysfunction: an echocardiographic approach: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of childbearing age, causing hormonal imbalances, reproductive issues, and metabolic disturbances. Women with PCOS have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease due to insulin resistance, obesity, and hyperandrogenism. Detecting impaired left ventricular (LV) function is important in managing this condition. Echocardiography, a non-invasive imaging technique, can effectively detect LV dysfunction. AIM: The goal of this systematic review was to assess whether there are any variations in echocardiographic measures between women with PCOS and those without the condition in order to determine the potential impact of PCOS on LV function. METHODS: This review followed the PRISMA reporting guidelines. A thorough search of databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane was conducted. The quality of the selected studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal instruments. After applying strict eligibility criteria, data were extracted and organized in Microsoft Excel sheets. Review Manager (RevMan) software was used for the analysis. RESULTS: Analysis of 29 studies revealed significant differences in echocardiographic measures related to diastolic function between women with PCOS and healthy controls. However, there were no significant differences in measures of systolic function. CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that PCOS may be linked to impaired LV function, thereby increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Further research is necessary to better understand this association and its clinical implications. Early detection and management of PCOS could potentially help prevent cardiovascular complications in affected women.