Aim: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is frequently accompanied by dermatologic findings and metabolic disturbances. Because Demodex mites thrive in sebaceous areas and have been linked to several inflammatory and metabolic conditions, we explored whether Demodex positivity is associated with clinical and laboratory features in women with PCOS.Material and Methods: In this prospective observational study, 63 women aged 18–40 years with a confirmed diagnosis of PCOS based on the Rotterdam criteria were enrolled. The presence of Demodex spp. was assessed using the standardized superficial skin biopsy technique. Sociodemographic data, anthropometric measurements, ovarian volume, oral glucose tolerance test results, and a panel of hormonal parameters were collected.Results: Demodex-positive patients had significantly higher body mass index, waist and abdominal circumference, ovarian volume, and fasting glucose levels, while their waist-to- abdominal ratio was lower compared to Demodex-negative patients (p 0.05). In contrast, multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that none of these parameters remained independently significant (p 0.05).Conclusion: The findings suggest that Demodex spp. infestation in women with PCOS may reflect both dermatological and metabolic alterations. Although univariate analyses indicated significant associations, these did not persist in multivariate models, underscoring the need for larger, prospective studies. Screening for Demodex may provide additional insight into the comprehensive management of PCOS, particularly in patients presenting with dermatological complaints.
Bülbül et al. (Wed,) studied this question.