Variations in anterior segment parameters among different phenotypes of polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate anterior segment parameters across various phenotypes of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), considering body mass index (BMI), serum estradiol and testosterone levels. Materials and Methods: This prospective study included 116 women with PCOS, with each of the four distinct phenotype comprising 29 women. Additionally, 29 healthy women were included in the control group. All participants underwent comprehensive ophthalmologic examinations, including intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements. Anterior segment parameters, such as central corneal thickness (CCT), axial length (AL), aqueous depth (AD), anterior chamber depth (ACD), and lens thickness (LT) were measured using optic biometry. Endothelial cell density (ECD) was assessed using non-contact specular microscopy. The BMI was calculated, and serum levels of estradiol and testosterone were noted. Results: IOP was found to be significantly higher (p = 0.003) and CCT was significantly thicker (p = 0.004) in all phenotypes of PCOS compared to the control group. BMI, serum estradiol and free testosterone were found to correlate with both IOP and CCT. AL, AD, ACD and LT values showed no significant differences compared to the control group. Although ECD tend to be higher in the PCOS phenotypes, this difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Given our findings that CCT and IOP are significantly elevated in PCOS phenotypes. PCOS should be considered as an important factor when evaluating female patients for anterior segment diseases and glaucoma.