Serum levels of anti-histone and anti-double-strand DNA antibodies before and after laparoscopic ovarian drilling in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the serum levels of anti-dsDNA, anti-histone, and anti-nucleosome antibodies after laparoscopic ovarian electrocauterization in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Methods: Our study was performed on 35 patients with PCOS resistant to medical therapy, 35 patients with unexplained infertility, and 35 healthy fertile individuals. Patients with PCOS underwent laparoscopic electrocauterization while those with unexplained infertility underwent diagnostic laparoscopy. Serum levels of anti-dsDNA, anti-histone, and anti-nucleosome antibodies were measured at baseline and 1 month after operation and were compared between groups. Result: Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Patients with PCOS had significantly higher levels of anti-dsDNA compared to unexplained infertility (p < 0.001) and control groups (p = 0.001). Anti-histone antibodies were higher in PCOS group compared to control group (p = 0.001). In those patients suffering from PCOS, anti-histone antibody increased significantly 1 month after ovarian electrocauterization (p = 0.017). Similarly, serum levels of anti-nucleosome antibodies increased significantly 1 month after operation (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Laparoscopic ovarian electrocauterization in patients with PCOS results in increased levels of anti-histone and anti-nucleosome antibodies. Anti-dsDNA, antihistone, and anti-nucleosome antibodies also increase after diagnostic laparoscopy in those with unexplained infertility. Patients with PCOS have higher levels of anti-dsDNA and anti-histone antibodies compared to those with unexplained infertility and healthy fertile subjects. © Federation of Obstetric & Gynecological Societies of India 2013.