Polycystic ovary syndrome and fibrocystic breast disease: is there any association?

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the association between a polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and fibrocystic breast disease.

METHODS

A total of 93 women, aged between 17 and 36 years, not using oral contraceptives, were entered in this case-control study. Laboratory, clinical and ultrasound findings were used to diagnose PCOS. The study group was consisted of 53 PCOS women and the control group consisted of 40 women. Breast ultrasonography was performed for all patients. Fibrocystic breast disease is described as common benign changes involving the tissues of the breast.

RESULTS

Twenty-one (39.6%) of 53 women with a PCOS had fibrocystic breast disease. Five (8%) of 40 controls had fibrocystic breast disease. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (p = 0.004). Relative risk (95% CIs) was 3.17 (1.31-7.68). Overall sonographic benign breast pathologies were significantly higher in the PCOS group (p = 0.036).

CONCLUSION

This study showed a statistically significant association between a PCOS and fibrocystic breast disease. Women with a PCOS should be evaluated for fibrocystic breast disease.