Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a disorder in which a female produces abnormally high levels of androgens (particularly testosterone). This has various adverse effects on the female body, including inhibition of ovulation. Which hypothalamic or pituitary form of hormonal control could cause abnormal production of androgens in females?

Question

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a disorder in which a female produces abnormally high levels of androgens (particularly testosterone). This has various adverse effects on the female body, including inhibition of ovulation. Which hypothalamic or pituitary form of hormonal control could cause abnormal production of androgens in females?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hypersecretion of LH can cause abnormal production of androgens in females. This is because LH stimulates the production of androgens by the ovaries, and an excess of LH can lead to an overproduction of androgens. This is one of the hallmarks of PCOS. Nonsecretion of GnRH would result in a lack of hormonal control altogether, whereas hyposecretion of FSH and hypersecretion of FSH would likely have little to no effect on androgen production.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Is a Disorder in Which a Female