In patients with PCOS experiencing anovulation, which hormone is most likely elevated?

• A. Testosterone
• B. Estrogen
• C. Luteinizing
• D. Follicle-stimulating

Answer: (C)

In patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), particularly those experiencing anovulation, luteinizing hormone (LH) is typically elevated. This elevation occurs due to the dysregulation of hormone secretion from the pituitary gland, often in conjunction with higher levels of androgens such as testosterone.

In PCOS, the ovarian follicles do not mature properly, leading to a disruption in the normal estrogen-progesterone balance. As a result, the body may respond by increasing LH levels, which can contribute to the underlying issues with ovulation. Unlike follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which tends to be low in this condition, the elevated LH levels and their effects on steroidogenesis lead to the characteristic symptoms and signs associated with PCOS, including menstrual irregularities and hyperandrogenism.

While testosterone and estrogen might also be impacted in this condition, elevated levels of LH specifically signify an imbalance in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis that is characteristic of anovulation in PCOS. Thus, recognizing the role of LH in this context helps in understanding the pathophysiology of the disorder and the hormonal profiles associated with it.