Total antioxidant capacity status in non-obese adolescent females with PCOS: a cross-section study

Background The endocrine disease polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) has a number of complications. Teenagers all over the globe are becoming increasingly concerned about the syndrome. It has been suggested that oxidative stress plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of PCOS. Aim The purpose of the present work was to estimate total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in non-obese adolescents and decide if the TAC could be a potential marker for the prediction and diagnosis of PCOS. Methods Serum samples were collected to assess the levels of follicle stimulant hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), serum lipids, and serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in 50 non-obese patients with PCOS and 50 controls; correlation analysis was made between serum lipid, hormonal parameters, and TAC. Results Adolescents with PCOS had significantly lower levels of TAC compared with controls and showed significant higher values of LH, FSH, and LH/FSH ratio. There were significant negative correlations between TAC levels with LH, FSH, and LH/FSH. Linear regression analysis revealed statistically significant correlations between TAC and LH and FSH levels in non-obese adolescents with PCOS. Conclusion Serum TAC level was diminished in non-obese PCOS patients and was related to increase of LH/FSH ratio. So, quantification of TAC activity in serum could be of value in assessment of cases at higher risk for development of PCOS, suggesting its possible role in regulating sex hormones and could have potential roles in the etiopathogenesis of PCOS in non-obese adolescent females.