What is a characteristic lab finding in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)?

In polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), one of the hallmark laboratory findings is an increased luteinizing hormone to follicle-stimulating hormone (LH:FSH) ratio. This finding is significant because it reflects the hormonal dysregulation commonly seen in PCOS patients. In a normal physiological state, the ratio of LH to FSH is close to 1:1, but in PCOS, the ratio may rise to 2:1 or even higher.

This increase in the LH:FSH ratio is thought to contribute to the underlying pathology of PCOS, which includes issues such as anovulation, amenorrhea, and the presence of ovarian cysts. The elevated LH levels can lead to increased androgen production by the ovaries, resulting in symptoms such as hirsutism and acne, which are commonly associated with the syndrome. Meanwhile, FSH levels may remain normal or be slightly decreased, which further highlights the imbalance.

In contrast, decreased LH:FSH ratios or normal levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone or increased progesterone levels are not characteristic of PCOS and do not align with the typical hormonal profile observed in patients with this condition. These alternative lab findings point toward different disorders or