Anatomical evidence for in utero androgen exposure in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have masculinized finger length patterns compared to women without PCOS.


METHODS
A case control study.


METHODS
University teaching hospital and in vitro fertilization unit.


METHODS
Seventy women aged between 18 and 40 years with PCOS were compared to 70 women without PCOS.


METHODS
Measurement of the second to fourth finger length ratio on the ventral surface of the left and right hand from the basal crease of the digit to the tip was made using Vernier calipers.


METHODS
The second to fourth finger length ratio.


RESULTS
We found a significantly reduced ratio in the right hand of the women with PCOS compared to the controls. The geometric mean right finger length ratio in the PCOS group was 98.3% that of the controls (95% confidence interval, 99.3%-97.3%).


CONCLUSIONS
Here we show a subtle difference in the finger length pattern of women with PCOS. This may constitute anatomical evidence of in utero androgen exposure in PCOS.
Cattrall
Fleur R
FR
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. fleur.cattrall@med.monash.edu.au
Vollenhoven
Beverley J
BJ
Weston
Gareth C
GC
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000728:Androgens / Q000502:physiology*; D015992:Body Mass Index; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D005260:Female; D005385:Fingers / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000196:embryology*; D007839:Functional Laterality; D006801:Humans; D011085:Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011297:Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects / Q000503:physiopathology*; D012727:Sex Characteristics
D000728:Androgens