Reproductive

Question 1

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is caused by

Answer 1

EXCESSIVE activity of one of these enzymes:

3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase
17 alpha hydroxylase,
17/20 lyase

Causes Increased LH:FSH ratio and increased androgens. Defective formation of dominant follicle prevents sufficient estrogen for LH surge and there is no ovulation.
Frequent anovulatory cycles cauess long term unoposed estrogen signaling and lack of progesterone, predisposing to

Question 2

What is used to diagnose PCOS and what are other characteristics

Answer 2

By having at least 2 of the 3 criteria:

Hyperandrogenism
Irregular periods
Polycystic ovaries by ultrasound.

Obesity, Acne, and Insulin Resistance are also common.