Serum lipoprotein (a) and lipid profile in polycystic ovarian syndrome

Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is associated with dyslipidaemia and may render the affected women “at risk” of developing cardiovascular disease. Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] is an independent risk factor for development of atherosclerosis and along with dyslipidaemia may add to cardiovascular risk. In this background the levels of Lp (a) and lipid profile are assessed in PCOS patients. Material and Methods: The study was carried out on 30 newly diagnosed PCOS subjects aged 18-35 years and 30 age-matched healthy women. Blood samples were collected in a fasting state and serum Lp(a), lipid parameters were estimated. Results: The lipid profile parameters were comparable between patients and control subjects. There was no statistically significant difference in the median [interquartile range (IQR)] Lp(a) levels between patients with PCOS and normal controls. However, the proportion of subjects with elevated (> 30 mg/dL) Lp(a) levels were significantly higher in patients with PCOS compared to control subjects. Conclusion: Elevated Lp(a) levels may contribute for development of atherosclerosis and increased cardiovascular risk in PCOS patients.