Correlation between phenotype and cortisol with anxiety status related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Abstract

Link of Video Abstract: https://youtu.be/VpTspeX7fe0 Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, hirsutism, obesity, acne vulgaris, and infertility. PCOS is a stigmatized condition that affects women's identity and mental health, especially anxiety. In addition, increased cortisol is associated with increased anxiety. This study aims to determine the effect of phenotype and cortisol on anxiety status in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients. Methods: 40 patients diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) aged 18-40 years in Makassar. The Indonesian version of the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) assesses anxiety. A blood sample is taken to check for cortisol (drip blood test). Cortisol levels were measured using the CMIA (Chemiluminescent microparticle Immunoassay) method. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 for Windows. Results: The prevalence of phenotypes A, B, C, and D were 27.5%, 0%, 45%, and 45%, respectively. Phenotype C had a higher body mass index than the other phenotypes but was not significantly different. (p > 0.05). About 26.1% of patients with phenotype A were found to suffer from mild anxiety and 29.5% experienced moderate anxiety. Compared to phenotype C, 52.2% experienced mild anxiety and 35.5% experienced moderate anxiety; however, these results were not statistically significant. Higher cortisol levels were found in phenotype A compared to other phenotypes (phenotype C; 7.01±3.12 and phenotype D; 6.37±3.02) but not significantly different (p>0.05). Conclusion: The PCOS phenotype has no relationship with the anxiety status of PCOS patients and there is no relationship between the phenotype and serum cortisol levels in PCOS patients.