PCOD/PCOS Panel Comprehensive Test
PCOD/PCOS Panel Comprehensive Test
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) are among the most common hormonal disorders in women of reproductive age. They are characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, hyperandrogenism (excess male hormones), ovarian cysts, and metabolic dysfunction. While PCOS is a more severe and systemic endocrine disorder, PCOD often refers to milder ovarian dysfunction.
The exact cause of PCOD/PCOS is unknown, but it is thought to result from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. The key feature of PCOS is insulin resistance, which contributes to increased androgen (male hormone) production, disrupted ovulation, and metabolic complications. Obesity, stress, and a sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate symptoms, making early diagnosis and intervention crucial.
If left untreated, PCOS can lead to infertility, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer. The PCOD/PCOS Panel Comprehensive helps assess hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and metabolic dysfunction, guiding personalized treatment strategies for better reproductive and overall health.
What is the PCOD/PCOS Panel Used For?
This test is used to:
- Diagnose PCOS/PCOD by evaluating hormone imbalances.
- Assess insulin resistance and metabolic risk.
- Identify causes of irregular periods, infertility, and hirsutism (excess hair growth).
- Monitor treatment response in women undergoing PCOS management.
Detect associated conditions, such as thyroid disorders or diabetes.
Tests Included in the PCOD/PCOS Panel
HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance)
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Measures insulin resistance, a key feature of PCOS.
Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Ultrasensitive
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Evaluates thyroid function, as thyroid disorders can mimic PCOS symptoms.
Blood Glucose Fasting (FBS)
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Checks for prediabetes or diabetes, which is common in PCOS.
Lipid Profile
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Assesses cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as PCOS increases cardiovascular risk.
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)
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Helps assess ovarian reserve and PCOS-related follicle development.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
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Often elevated in PCOS, causing an imbalance with FSH.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
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Helps evaluate ovarian function and LH/FSH ratio, which is typically altered in PCOS.
Prolactin
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Elevated levels may indicate prolactinoma, a condition that can mimic PCOS symptoms.
Total Testosterone
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Measures androgen levels; high testosterone is a hallmark of PCOS.
Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEAS)
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Assesses adrenal androgen production, which may contribute to hirsutism and acne.
Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)
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Low levels indicate higher free testosterone, contributing to excess hair growth and acne.
Insulin (Fasting)
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Assesses insulin resistance, which is a driver of PCOS-related metabolic dysfunction.
Symptoms of PCOS/PCOD
Irregular or absent menstrual periods.
Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism).
Acne and oily skin.
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
Hair thinning or scalp hair loss.
Difficulty conceiving (infertility).
Dark patches on the skin (acanthosis nigricans), a sign of insulin resistance.
Who Should Be Tested?
A PCOD/PCOS Panel Test is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of PCOS or PCOD. It is particularly useful for:
- Women with irregular periods
- Women with excess hair growth (hirsutism)
- Women with acne or oily skin
- Women with unexplained weight gain
- Women facing infertility issues
- Women with hair thinning or scalp hair loss
- Women with symptoms of insulin resistance
- Women with a family history of PCOS
Preparation for the Test
Fasting for 8-12 hours is recommended, especially for glucose and lipid profile testing. The test is best performed on day 2 or 3 of the menstrual cycle for accurate hormone assessment. Avoid intense exercise or stress before the test, as these can affect hormone levels. Inform your doctor about any medications, such as birth control pills or metformin, that may impact results. A blood sample is drawn from a vein for analysis.
Interpretation of Results
- Elevated LH/FSH Ratio (>2:1)- Suggests PCOS-related ovulatory dysfunction.
- High Testosterone & DHEAS- Indicates excess androgens, leading to acne and hirsutism.
- Low SHBG & High Free Testosterone- Suggests increased androgen activity.
- High AMH Levels (>4.5 ng/mL)- Supports PCOS diagnosis due to excessive ovarian follicles.
- High Insulin & HOMA-IR- Indicates insulin resistance, increasing diabetes risk.
- Abnormal Lipid Profile- Suggests higher cardiovascular risk in PCOS patients.
FAQs
Can PCOS be diagnosed with blood tests alone?
No, diagnosis is based on blood tests, ultrasound findings, and clinical symptoms.
What does a high LH/FSH ratio mean?
A high LH/FSH ratio (>2:1) is commonly seen in PCOS and indicates irregular ovulation.
How does insulin resistance relate to PCOS?
Insulin resistance leads to higher androgen production, causing symptoms like irregular cycles, acne, and weight gain.
Can PCOS cause infertility?
Yes, PCOS can cause ovulation problems, but treatment can improve fertility outcomes.
How can PCOS be managed?
- Lifestyle changes (healthy diet, exercise).
- Medications (metformin, hormonal therapy).
- Fertility treatments if conception is a goal.
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