MCQ – 448

Hormonal changes in Polycystic ovary disease is:

A.	Low Progesterone
B.	Normal LH, FSH and Estradiol
C.	High LH, low FSH, and low Estradiol
D.	Low LH, FSH, and Estradiol

Show Answer

Correct Answer » A Explanation

In polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), chronic anovulation is common. Without ovulation, a functional corpus luteum does not develop adequately, so luteal progesterone production is low.

The typical hormonal pattern is:

• ↑ Androgens — testosterone, androstenedione ± dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS)
• LH may be elevated, although an elevated LH:FSH ratio is not required for diagnosis
• FSH is usually normal or relatively low
• Progesterone is low because of chronic anovulation
• Estradiol is generally not markedly low; estrogen exposure is often relatively persistent because of peripheral aromatization and continued follicular activity.

Reason to rule out other options

Chronic anovulation → no normal corpus luteum → reduced progesterone production.

B. Normal LH, FSH and estradiol 

PCOS is associated with abnormalities in gonadotropin secretion and, importantly, hyperandrogenism. Also, saying all three are simply normal does not characterize PCOS.

C. High LH, low FSH and low estradiol 

Although LH can be elevated and FSH may be relatively low, low estradiol is not the characteristic hormonal abnormality.

D. Low LH, FSH and estradiol 

This pattern suggests hypothalamic/pituitary hypogonadism, not PCOS.