چکیده (انگلیسی):

The present study was designed to evaluate the relationship between serum leptin levels
and the hormones related to fertility in Iraqi females with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
and marital status. This study was conducted during the period from July to December 2007.
Twenty-four women (12 married and 12 unmarried) with PCOS and not maintained on any type
of therapy were included in the study. Twelve healthy and normal ovulatory women with an age
range matched with that of PCOS women were included. After an overnight fasting, blood samples
were drawn from all women at random days. While in those with regular menstrual cycles, blood
samples were obtained during the follicular phase of the cycle, except for samples utilized for the
assay of progesterone that performed in the day 21 of the cycle (luteal phase). After preparation
of serum, the levels of leptin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulation hormone (FSH), progesterone,
testosterone and prolactin were analyzed. Both groups of PCOS patients showed significantly
lower levels of serum leptin, while prolactin, LH and FSH and testosterone were
significantly elevated compared to controls. No significant differences were reported among PCOS
patients with different marital status. In conclusion, impaired plasma leptin levels in PCOS women
were associated with impaired endocrinological parameters related to fertility.