Relationship between Hormonal and Metabolic Profile of PCOS and Pancreatic Ultrasound Findings

Abstract

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine and metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, and an increased risk of cardiometabolic complications. Recent evidence suggests that ectopic fat deposition, including pancreatic steatosis, may contribute to metabolic dysfunction in affected individuals. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between hormonal and metabolic profiles in women with PCOS and their pancreatic ultrasound findings. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 55 women aged 18–40 years diagnosed with PCOS. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical parameters, including fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, lipid profile, LH, FSH, total testosterone, SHBG, and FAI, were assessed. Pancreatic ultrasound was performed to evaluate echogenicity and duct size. Results: The study population showed an increased mean BMI, indicating an overweight group, while insulin resistance was highly prevalent (mean HOMA-IR = 4.43 ± 2.10). Fatty pancreas was detected in 83.6% of participants. A strong positive correlation was observed between HOMA-IR and fasting insulin (r = 0.917, p < 0.001). However, pancreatic echogenicity demonstrated weak and statistically non-significant correlations with metabolic and hormonal parameters. Additionally, independent t-tests revealed no significant differences between participants with and without fatty pancreas. Conclusion: Overall, the findings indicate that although pancreatic steatosis is frequently observed in PCOS, it is not strongly associated with hormonal or metabolic disturbances. Insulin resistance remains the central metabolic abnormality, and pancreatic ultrasound should be considered a complementary rather than primary diagnostic tool.