#228 : Variability of Symptom Profiles in Individuals with Mate Kirikoopu/Endometriosis and/or Huahua Hua Kuao/Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Background and Aims: Although opposing risk factors have been proposed for mate kirikōpū/endometriosis (oestrogen-dependence) and huahua hua kūao/polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS; androgen dependence), there is a cohort of individuals with both endometriosis and PCOS. We propose that disease comorbidity will alter symptom profiles in comparison to those with only one disease, and that analysis of these differential profiles may hint at underlying mechanisms of disease pathology. Methods: An anonymous online survey was distributed via social media (NZ residents, >18 years) and included questions related to diagnosis, symptoms, treatment and management of endometriosis and/or PCOS. Results: In total, 1323 responses (median [range] = 31 years [18–72]) were received within a two-week period (endometriosis only: n=615, 48%; PCOS only: n=459, 35%; both diseases: n=247, 19%). When asked about symptoms ‘ever experienced’, comorbid individuals report both symptoms commonly ascribed to endometriosis (e.g, dysmenorrhea) as well as those ascribed to PCOS (e.g., irregular periods) thereby exacerbating impacts on quality of life. An exception, the proportion of individuals reporting absent menstrual periods was increased in cormobid individuals (45%) relative to those with endometriosis only (21%), but decreased relative to those with PCOS only (67%), suggesting a more complex interaction between the two diseases. Conclusions: These data highlight the heterogenity of disease phenotype in individuals with endometriosis and/or PCOS. We suggest that an understanding of the intersection of these two common diseases, and a recognition of the associated phenotypic diversity, will provide avenues of research to better understand the pathophysiology of both endometriosis and PCOS.