Is PCOS an inflammatory process?

Fertil Steril. 2012 Jan;97(1):7-12. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.11.023.

Abstract

PRO--PCOS is associated with low-grade systemic inflammation as evidenced by elevation of multiple markers of inflammation such as C-reactive protein, interleukin-18, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and white blood cell count as well as endothelial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress. CON--Current studies examining the evidence for low grade inflammation in PCOS are small, heterogeneous for the diagnosis, confounded by degree of adiposity and do not consistently demonstrate a clinically relevant increase in the above mentioned biomarkers.

MeSH terms

  • Atherosclerosis / immunology
  • Atherosclerosis / metabolism
  • Biomarkers / metabolism
  • C-Reactive Protein / metabolism
  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • Female
  • Glycation End Products, Advanced / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Infections / immunology
  • Infections / metabolism
  • Inflammation / immunology*
  • Inflammation / metabolism
  • Ovary / immunology*
  • Ovary / metabolism
  • Oxidative Stress / physiology
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / immunology*
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / metabolism
  • Vasculitis / immunology
  • Vasculitis / metabolism

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Cytokines
  • Glycation End Products, Advanced
  • C-Reactive Protein