HbA(1c) in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Potential Marker of Inflammation

BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that is associated with increased inflammation, insulin resistance, and elevated risk of metabolic complications. hs-CRP is the most reliable marker of inflammation in PCOS patients. When hs-CRP is elevated, it can indicate increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The purpose of the study was to determine if a certain value of HbA(1c) in PCOS patients should alert clinicians to increased inflammation (as defined by hs-CRP >2 mg/l), thus potentially be indicative of increased risk of cardiovascular disease. METHODS: A cohort study was conducted on female patients between the ages of 20 to 45 years who fulfilled the National Institute of Health criteria for PCOS. De-identified data of 46 patients with PCOS were obtained. All clinical tests were conducted after a 12 hr overnight fast. hs-CRP was measured by latex-enhanced immunonephelometry. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the association between hs-CRP and HbA(1c). RESULTS: When various HbA(1c) levels were considered, a cutoff of 5.3% correctly classified patients with hs-CRP >2 mg/l at 80.4%. Sensitivity was 83.3% and specificity was 75%. CONCLUSION: An HbA(1c) cut off of 5.3% may be appropriate to initiate efforts for early detection of increased inflammation as a potential sign of risk for cardiovascular disease.