The PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) Profile Test is a comprehensive diagnostic panel that checks for hormonal imbalances and metabolic markers linked to PCOS. It helps confirm the diagnosis, classify the PCOS subtype (e.g., classic, lean, adrenal, or metabolic), and guide effective treatment planning. This test is ideal for women experiencing irregular periods, acne, infertility, excessive hair growth, or weight gain.
It includes tests for key hormones (LH, FSH, testosterone, AMH), metabolic markers (insulin, glucose, lipids), and indicators that help rule out other conditions that can mimic PCOS (thyroid issues, high prolactin).
Indications for The Test
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have:
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Irregular or missed periods (oligo- or amenorrhea)
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Excessive hair growth, acne, or scalp hair thinning
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Difficulty conceiving (especially due to suspected ovulation issues)
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Obesity, insulin resistance, or metabolic syndrome
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Polycystic-appearing ovaries seen on an ultrasound
Patient Preparation
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Fasting: Required for 8–12 hours before the test (for glucose, insulin, and lipid levels)
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Timing: If menstruating, the test should ideally be done between days 3–5 of the menstrual cycle
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Medication: Avoid biotin supplements for 48 hours before testing, as they may interfere with hormone test results
Reference Values
| Marker | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| LH | 5 – 20 mIU/mL |
| FSH | 4 – 8 mIU/mL |
| Free Testosterone | 0.7 – 3.6 pg/mL |
| SHBG | 18 – 144 nmol/L |
| AMH | > 3.5 ng/mL (in PCOS) |
| DHEAS | 35 – 430 µg/dL |
| Prolactin | < 25 ng/mL |
| TSH | 0.4 – 4.0 mIU/L |
| Fasting Insulin | Normal: < 20 µIU/mL |
| Fasting Glucose | < 100 mg/dL |
| HOMA-IR | < 1.0 (normal insulin sensitivity) |
| HDL | > 50 mg/dL |
| Triglycerides | < 150 mg/dL |
Interpretation
The diagnosis of PCOS is made using Rotterdam criteria, which requires any 2 of the following 3:
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Irregular or absent ovulation
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Signs of excess male hormones (acne, hirsutism, etc.)
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Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound
Common Subtypes:
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Classic PCOS: High LH:FSH ratio, elevated testosterone, low SHBG, high AMH
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Lean PCOS: Hormonal symptoms present, but insulin levels normal
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Adrenal PCOS: Elevated DHEAS (especially >500 µg/dL)
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Metabolic PCOS: High insulin, low SHBG, and cholesterol abnormalities
This test can also help rule out:
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Thyroid dysfunction (abnormal TSH)
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Hyperprolactinemia (elevated prolactin)
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Cushing’s syndrome (high cortisol)
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Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)
Turnaround Time
Results are usually available within 5 working days after the sample is collected.
How to Order PCOS Profile Test
Click the “Order Test” button and add the PCOS Profile Test to your cart.
You can also visit our laboratory in Kilimani, Nairobi, to begin the testing process.
