13.5 Ovary Flashcards
What is the function unit of the ovary?
Follicle
What comprises a follicle?
Oocyte, surrounded by granulosa and theca cells
What is the hormone that induces theca cells to produce androgen?
LH
What is the cell that FSH acts on in women? What does this do?
Granulosa cells
convert androgen from theca cells, and convert it to estrogen / estradiol
What is the cell that LH acts on in women? What does this do?
Theca cell
Production of androgens
What is the function of estrogen on the developing embryo?
Induces maturation
What is the role of estrogen in the uterus?
Induces the proliferative phase of the uterus
What happens to the follicle, after ovulation?
Becomes the corpus luteum, to secrete progesterone
What is the function of progesterone on the uterine lining?
Prepares endometrium for maintenance of a possible pregnancy
Hemorrhage into the corpus luteum produces what?
Hemorrhagic cyst
What are follicular cysts?
Degenerated follicles
What causes PCOS?
Increased LH causes increased androgen synthesis by theca cells. This androgen is converted in peripheral fat to estrone, and inhibits FSH production, decreasing granulosa cell production of estradiol. No estradiol means the follicle degenerates, as opposed to proliferation, resulting in a follicular cyst.
What is the characteristic hormonal findings in PCOS?
LH:FSH ratio is greater than 2
What is the classic presentation of a PCOS patient?
Obese young woman with infertility, oligomenorrhea, and hirsutism
What cancer at pts with PCOS at risk for? Why?
High circulating levels of estrone increases the risk for endometrial carcinoma
