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. 2004 Oct;21(10):361–366. doi: 10.1023/B:JARG.0000046204.81682.67

Serum Leptin Elevation in Obese Women with PCOS: A Continuing Controversy

Hisham Ali Saleh 1,2, Mohamed Amr El-Nwaem 3, Magdy Mamdouh El-Bordiny 2, Hala Mohamed El-Sayed Maqlad 3, Amr Ahmed El-Mohandes 3, Ebtehag Mohamed Eldaqaq 3
PMCID: PMC3455233  PMID: 15587140

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate leptin levels in a sample of obese women with PCOS and compare the results with obese and non-obese control, to be ultimately correlated with BMI, and insulin sensitivity.

Methods: Leptin and insulin assays by immuno-radiometric method, glucose assay by enzymatic colorimetric method.

Results: Leptin levels were significantly different between obese and non-obese subjects, and were significantly different between insulin resistant and non-insulin resistant obese PCOS, but were not significantly different between obese non-insulin resistant PCOS, and obese controls.

Conclusions: Body mass index and insulin resistance are the two main factors governing serum leptin levels.

Keywords: Body mass index, leptin, obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome

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