Evaluation of Homocysteine Levels in Patients with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

BackgroundTo determine the level of plasma homocysteine in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) compared with healthy controls. Materials and MethodsIn this prospective case-control study on 85 PCOS women and 83 controls matched by body mass index (BMI), homocysteine levels were assessed. ResultsThe mean level of homocysteine was 16.25 ± 11.94 μmol/L in patients with PCOS and 11.58 ± 3.82 μmol/L in controls (p=0.002). Patients with PCOS had a significantly higher risk for hyperhomocysteinemia compared with BMI-matched control women. Conclusion These data suggest that homocysteine levels are elevated in the PCOS population. Further studies are needed to characterize this relationship.