The “Asthma-Polycystic Ovary Overlap Syndrome” and the Therapeutic Role of Myo-Inositol

Abstract

Asthma is a heterogeneous inflammatory disease characterized by abnormalities in immune response. Due to the inherent complexity of the disease and the presence of comorbidities, asthma control is often difficult to obtain. In asthmatic patients, an increased prevalence of irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, obesity, and insulin resistance has been reported. Given that these conditions are also common in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), we propose the definition of “asthma-PCOS overlap syndrome” to indicate a medical condition which shares characteristics of both diseases. The aim of this review is to analyze the links between asthma and PCOS and evaluate the therapeutic role of myo-inositol, a natural compound currently utilized in patients with PCOS, in the management of asthma patients.

Increased Prevalence of Adverse Health Outcomes Across the Lifespan in Those Affected by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Canadian Population Cohort

“…An increased prevalence of menstrual dysfunction, infertility, obesity, and insulin resistance has been reported in women with asthma. 119 , 120 , 121 The link between asthma and PCOS is proposed to occur via inflammatory pathways that are shared in obesity and insulin resistance. 119 , 120 , 121 Those with PCOS appear to have a higher risk of developing asthma, and the level of use of asthma medication prescriptions is reported to be higher in those with PCOS.…”

“… 119 , 120 , 121 The link between asthma and PCOS is proposed to occur via inflammatory pathways that are shared in obesity and insulin resistance. 119 , 120 , 121 Those with PCOS appear to have a higher risk of developing asthma, and the level of use of asthma medication prescriptions is reported to be higher in those with PCOS. 32 , 122 In a Danish cohort, asthma had a prevalence of 25% in those with PCOS who were aged 12-60 years.…”

Association between pediatric asthma and adult polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): a cross-sectional analysis of the UAE healthy future Study (UAEHFS)

“…Previous studies have established the association between PCOS and subsequent asthma among reproductive-aged females ( 12 – 14 ). There is clinical overlap between asthma and PCOS ( 15 ), including alterations in gut microbiota ( 16 – 18 ), menstrual cycle abnormalities ( 19 – 21 ), infertility ( 22 , 23 ), obesity ( 24 – 26 ), and insulin resistance that was found in asthmatics as well as females with PCOS ( 27 , 28 ). Previous epidemiological studies have also found an association between PCOS and subsequent asthma ( 13 , 29 ).…”