Figure 1.

Schematic summary of the role of the thyroid in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Hyperinsulinism and obesity are necessary for full-blown pathogenesis of PCOS. Thyroid hormones participate in the regulation of blood glucose at the central and peripheral levels. Hypothyroidism has been shown to cause insulin resistance. THs regulate lipid metabolism. Decreased thyroid function readily leads to lipid metabolism disorders, including obesity. The immune state of the body also plays a key role in PCOS. HT and GD are common AITDs that have been repeatedly shown to increase PCOS risk in women. Sex hormones are regulated by Thyroid signal pathway. THs, Thyroid hormones; HT, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis; GD, Graves’ disease; AITD, autoimmune thyroid disease; SCH, subclinical hypothyroidism.