Asian Journal of Research in Dermatological Science

Background: Acne is one of the most common dermatological conditions encountered in day to day practice. Many recent studies have reported a strong association between acne and underlying systemic endocrine disorders, more particularly Polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Objective: To study the association between acne and polycystic ovarian syndrome, in women presenting with adult onset acne and its associated factors with regard to the clinical findings.

Study Design: This was a cross –sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Dermatology at Tishreen University Hospital, Lattakia, Syria, from January 2018 to February 2019.

Methodology: Total of 150 female patients aged 18-43 years, with various degree of acne did not receive hormonal treatment, including hormonal contraceptive and antiandrogen therapy, for at least 3 months prior to study. Each participant was evaluated by complete medical history, detailed dermatological examination, abdominal ultrasound examination and hormonal assays. The presence of PCOS was assessed using Rotterdam criteria 2003.

Results: The final analysis had included 150 women with acne. The proportion with mild, moderate, severe and very severe acne was 56%, 30%, 11% and 3% respectively. The prevalence of PCOS was 34%. PCOS had shown no statistically significant association with severity of acne or total testosterone concentration (p value >0.05). The factors which have shown statistically significant association were late onset acne above 25 years, irregularity of menstrual cycle, presence of Hirsutism, higher BMI and higher waist circumference.

Conclusion: PCOS is a common disorder among women with acne vulgaris. However it is not related to the severity of acne. Presence of menstrual disturbance, hirsutism, obesity are strong risk factors for PCOS. Early diagnoses and treatment can avoid the possible complications.