Reproduction - Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Questions with complete answers

What are the major hormones that govern the menstrual cycle, and their major functions? correct answers Luteinizing hormone (LH), Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulate follicle growth and production of estrogen in ovaries. Estrogen levels rise, FSH levels drop, LH levels increase. LH causes follicle to release new egg. Corpus luteum forms in its place, begins to produce progesterone to prepare uterus for possible fertilization and implantation. Estrogen also builds up the tissue in the uterus. Falling levels of progesterone and estrogen after pregnancy does not occur signals menses to begin. Briefly describe PCOS and what is known about the underlying causes. correct answers PCOS is an endocrine disorder. The symptoms include varying amounts of cysts on ovaries, infertility, acne, hirsutism, obesity, male pattern baldness, irregular or prolonged menstruation What classic symptoms of PCOS does our patient exhibit? Explain these symptoms in the context of the overall understanding of PCOS. correct answers -Infrequent periods starting with menarche (first period); excess facial hair; clinically obese; infertile; family history of type II diabetes. -Symptoms a result of high testosterone levels -Imaging shows cystic ovaries Explain the concept that PCOS is due to underlying "hyperandrogenism". How does this relate to common findings including: hirsutism, anovulation or oligomenorrhea, and the appearance of polycystic ovaries on ultrasound? correct answers High testosterone levels relate to: hirsutism, an ovulation, oligomenorrhea; Testosterone can inhibit the egg from being developed. Resulting in cysts. Hyperandrogenism correct answers overproduction of androgens Hirsutism correct answers excess facial hair Anovulation correct answers ovaries are not able to produce oocyte Oligomenorrhea correct answers infrequent or irregular menstruation Is there a genetic basis for PCOS? What risk factors are evident in our patient's history for PCOS? correct answers If a close female relative has it, patient is more likely to have it. Certain changes genes are still being studied for possible links to PCOS: ovarian and adrenal steroidogenesis, genes involved in steroid hormones, involved in gonadotropin action and regulation, insulin action and secretion Briefly describe the normal role for insulin with regard to glucose metabolism. correct answers Insulin is the only hormone that has a direct effect on lowering blood glucose levels. When blood glucose levels increase (after a meal), insulin is secreted from the beta cells of the pancreas.