Evaluation of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Through Androstolone and Pituitary Hormones Lab Testing
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Abstract
Hyperandrogenemia is an essential symptom of PCOS. Androgens are produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands as the final products of a series of enzymatic reactions starting from a common precursor, i.e, cholesterol. The critical intermediate stages of androgen production involve the conversion of cholesterol into dehydroepiandrosterone and androstenedione. These reactions take place in the theca cells . Hyperandrogenemia is considered the main clinical hallmark of PCOS. It is estimated that more than 80% of women who exhibit signs or symptoms of hyperandrogenism , including hirsutism, acne or alopecia, have PCOS .Abnormalities in the neuroendocrine system like increased pulse frequency of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, stimulating the pituitary for excessive production of luteinizing hormone than that of follicle-stimulating hormone is seen in PCOS women. Excess LH stimulates ovarian androgen production, whereas a relative deficit in FSH impairs follicular development. The imbalance in LH: FSH causes proliferation of ovarian theca cells leading to increased steroid genesis , and ultimately leading to hyperandrogenism in PCOS women.
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