The clinical and biochemical characteristics associated with insulin resistance in non-obese young women.

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the biomarkers of insulin resistance in non-obese women.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective study.

PATIENTS

A total 229 non-obese women (Body mass index: BMI < 25) were evaluated.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Serum levels of various androgens, cardiovascular risk and metabolic components.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in the prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hyperprolactinemia, or premature ovarian failure (POF) between the non-obese women with and without insulin resistance. Non-obese women with insulin had significantly higher serum thyroid stimulation hormone (TSH) levels and resistin and lower serum adiponectin levels than non-obese women without insulin resistance; however, the inflammatory biomarkers and serum androgen levels did not differ between the two groups. Furthermore, using step-wise multivariate regression analysis applied by the risk factors listed above, TSH was the only predictive factor for insulin resistance in non-obese reproductive-aged women.

CONCLUSIONS

Thyroid function should play an important role in developing insulin resistance for non-obese women. Serum androgens and inflammation might not contribute to insulin resistance in these women.