Radiographic abnormalities in patients with Stein-Leventhal syndrome

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Radiology
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Stein-Leventhal syndrome, also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), is a common endocrine disorder.
• Previous research has explored various clinical and biochemical manifestations of this syndrome.
• The role of specific radiographic findings and hormonal assays in PCOS diagnosis and management requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of radiographic abnormalities in patients diagnosed with Stein-Leventhal syndrome.
• To assess the correlation between specific radiographic findings and hormonal levels, particularly prolactin.
• To determine the utility of routine screening with serum prolactin assays and skull radiography in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study analyzing radiographic data from 254 patients with Stein-Leventhal syndrome.
• Review of sella turcica x-rays, hysterosalpingograms, and intravenous pyelograms.
• Correlation of abnormal sella turcica findings with serum prolactin levels.

Main Results:

• Abnormal sella turcica x-rays were observed in 8.7% of patients.
• Abnormal hysterosalpingograms and intravenous pyelograms were found in 3.2% and 2.0% of patients, respectively.
• Three patients with abnormal sella turcica x-rays exhibited serum prolactin levels >45 ng/ml, indicative of potential pituitary adenoma.

Conclusions:

• Radiographic abnormalities, particularly in the sella turcica, are present in a subset of patients with Stein-Leventhal syndrome.
• Elevated serum prolactin levels in conjunction with abnormal sella turcica findings suggest a higher risk of pituitary adenoma.
• Routine serum prolactin assays and skull x-rays with polytomography are recommended for comprehensive evaluation of patients with Stein-Leventhal syndrome.