An evaluation of zinc, homocysteine, and vitamin D levels in adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Objectives: Adolescence is defined as the period between the ages of 10 and 19 years according to the World Health Organisation, and in this period there are physical, sexual, biological, psychological, and social changes. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a disease characterized by endocrine and metabolic disorders seen in females of reproductive age. Although the cause is not fully known, genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors are thought to be responsible. Homocysteine is an essential amino acid formed from methionine, which converts to cystathionine with trans-sulfuration in the presence of vitamin B6, or to methionine with remethylation in the presence of vitamin B12. Vitamin D is a hormone with a steroid structure, which enables the development of several systems by regulating the balance of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Zinc, which is found in the structure of several metalloenzymes, is an important element for metabolism. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a change in the levels of vitamin D, zinc, and homocysteine in adolescents with PCOS. Materials and methods: The data were screened of patients in the Gynecology and Pediatric Department of Kahramanmaras Necip Fazil City Hospital between January and October 2020. The study included a total of 60 patients: group I consisted of 30 adolescent girls diagnosed with PCOS, and group II consisted of 30 age-matched adolescent healthy girls. The groups were compared with respect to plasma homocysteine, serum folic acid, vitamin B12, zinc, and vitamin D levels. Results: Homocysteine levels (mu mol/L) were determined as follows: group I, 12.1 +/- 3.5; group II, 7.8 +/- 2.6. Vitamin B12 (ng/L): group I, 292.3 +/- 44.2; group II, 419.7 +/- 116.1. Folic acid (mu g/L): group I, 7.9 +/- 1.3; group II, 10.2 +/- 3.2. Vitamin D (ng/mL): group I, 13.42 +/- 5.82; group II, 21.07 +/- 10.76. Zinc (mu g/dL): group I, 67.6 +/- 32.3; group II, 123.2 +/- 69.1. The homocysteine levels were determined to be statistically significantly higher in the group with PCOS (group I), and the folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and zinc levels were significantly lower (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In adolescents with PCOS, it is important that zinc, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and folic acid levels are determined and followed up in order to prevent possible complications. If there are deficiencies, these vitamins and zinc should be supplemented.