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.