The Relationship of Osteoprotegerin with Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Women with and Without Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Aim: In this study, we aimed to compare osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels in patients with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and to investigate the correlation between OPG levels and cardiovascular risk factors. Methods: A total of 49 patients with PCOS and 31 age- and body mass index-matched healthy controls were included in the study. Blood samples were collected and hormonal and metabolic parameters and OPG levels were analyzed. The carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) was measured for each patient and control through ultrasonography. Results: The low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol levels were higher and the Homeostasis Model Assessment-Insulin Index (HOMA-IR) values were higher in patients with PCOS (p=0.002, p=0.037, and p=0.028, respectively). The OPG levels were 4.29 pmol/L and 4.07 pmol/L in the patient and control groups, respectively, indicating no significant difference between the groups. The CIMT was 0.57 in both groups. Conclusion: Our study results suggest that OPG levels appear to be similar in patients with PCOS and healthy controls. Although OPG has been associated with endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis and coronary calcification in previous studies, currently not a useful marker for cardiovascular risk analysis in this patient population.