Metabolic profile and insulin resistance in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

Aim: The following metabolic parameters were assessed in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) diagnosed by polysomnography (PSG): leptin, IFG (ımpaired fasting glucose), thyroid functions, thyroid autoantibodies, lipid parameters, insulin levels, HOMA-IR index, CRP, obesity, and metabolic syndrome frequency.Materials and methods: Three patient groups were defined based on apnea-hypoapnea index (AHI) levels (Group I: n: 11 male (M)/19 female (F); Group II: n: 19 M/10 F; Group III: n: 21 M/10 F) and 2 control groups (obese (n = 18 M/12 F) and normal (n = 12 M/18 F)) were included with comparable BMI value and age.Results: The frequencies of metabolic syndrome were compared between patient groups, and no significant difference was found, despite an increased frequency of metabolic syndrome from mild OSAS to severe OSAS. The following significant differences were observed for insulin values: normal controls versus obese controls (P 0.0001), normal controls versus Group I (P = 0.014), normal controls versus Group II (P = 0.001), normal controls versus Group III (P 0.0001), and Group I versus Group III (P = 0.026).Conclusion: An increased frequency of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance was found in OSAS patients. OSAS patients with metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance are at an increased risk of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases.